NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 2016-072A
The new satellite is the fourth in China’s Tianlian 1 series, joining data relay stations launched in 2008, 2011 and 2012.
The spacecraft will conduct maneuvers in the coming days and weeks to circularize its orbit nearly 22,300 miles (nearly 35,800 kilometers) over the equator, where its velocity will match the rate of Earth’s rotation. That allows the satellite to stay over the same part of Earth at all times.
Launch Date: 2016-11-22
Launch Vehicle: Long March 3C/E
Launch Site: Xichang, Peoples Republic of China
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office