NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 2017-058B
According to the official launch announcement, the Yaogan-30 (01) satellites were developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences to create a multi-satellite system for electromagnetic environment detection which could be interpreted as a science-driven mission, though intelligence-gathering in the electromagnetic spectrum could also fall within the realm. Even if operating from a lower inclination than the typical Yaogan trios, the satellites could still cover the majority of Earth’s marine traffic routes, if ship-tracking and characterization is indeed their role.
Launch Date: 2017-09-29
Launch Vehicle: Long March 2C
Launch Site: Xichang, Peoples Republic of China
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office