NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 1970-034A
This DFH (Dong Fang Hong - Red is East) Chinese communications satellite contained a radio transmitter. It was the first Chinese experimental satellite launched by a LM-1 booster into a 441 x 2286 km orbit inclined at 68.4 deg. from a launch facility near Lop Nor. The primary satellite mission was to broadcast the song "Dong Fang Hong", paying tribute to Chairman Mao, and to announce the time. The satellite was spherically shaped with a one meter diameter. It ceased transmitting in June 1970. This was the first satellite launched by China on its own booster, making China the fifth nation to put a spacecraft into orbit using its own rocket.
Launch Date: 1970-04-24
Launch Vehicle: Long March
Launch Site: Shuang Cheng-Tzu, Peoples Republic of China
Mass: 173 kg
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office