China's recently-launched L-SAR4 01 satellite, the world's first geosynchronous (high Earth orbit) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite stepping into the project implementation stage, has entered its working orbit with its SAR antenna successfully deployed, according to the China National Space Administration (CNSA).
The L-SAR4 01 satellite, sent into space on Aug. 13, has entered its designated orbit after four orbital adjustments and completed its initial flight control testing, the CNSA said, adding that the satellite is working properly and will continue to carry out in-orbit testing.
SAR uses radio waves to produce high-resolution images rather than utilizing the light from the sun as with optical images. It can capture images at night and see right through clouds and smoke. It is a 24-hour, all-weather technology.
Currently, all in-orbit SAR satellites worldwide operate in low Earth orbits (LEO) with altitudes typically lower than 1,000 km. Geosynchronous SAR works in orbit with an altitude of approximately 36,000 km, with a revisit period of one day, much shorter than that of LEO SAR.
Researchers from the China Academy of Space Technology spent 15 years developing the L-SAR4 01 satellite. They proposed the plan of a large-diameter circular reflector antenna with a phased array feed scheme, realizing technological progress in related fundamental theories, system design and precision manufacturing.
According to the CNSA, the L-SAR4 01 satellite can provide service for seven industries, including disaster prevention and mitigation, resource prospecting and exploration, water conservancy, meteorology, agriculture, environmental protection, and forestry.
The satellite is currently the most widely used remote-sensing satellite in China. It is expected to improve the country's space-based disaster monitoring system, enrich observation methods in key regions of China, and enhance disaster prevention, reduction and relief.
The satellite is a remote sensing research satellite listed in China's national medium and long-term development plan for civil space infrastructure (2015-2025).
According to Meng Lingjie, deputy chief engineer of the CNSA Earth Observation and Data Center, in 2022, China launched more than 200 satellites. The country's national civil space infrastructure system, mainly composed of satellite remote sensing, communication and navigation, has taken the initial shape, Meng noted.
China will continue to improve the construction of national space infrastructure and the space information service, such as ubiquitous connectivity and precise spatiotemporal data.
Research Report:China's L-SAR4 01 satellite enters operational orbit
Artificial Intelligence Analysis
Defense Industry Analyst:
8/10
Stock Market Analyst:
6/10
General Industry Analyst:
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Analyst Summary
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China’s recently launched L SAR4 01 satellite is the world’s first geosynchronous high Earth orbit synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite, and has now successfully entered its working orbit with its SAR antenna deployed. SAR technology uses radio waves to produce high-resolution images, and works 24/7 under any weather conditions, unlike optical imaging. Currently, all in orbit SAR satellites operate in low Earth orbits (LEO) with altitudes typically lower than 1,000 km, however the L SAR4 01 satellite works in orbit with an altitude of approximately 36,000 km, and has a revisit period of one day. The satellite is expected to improve the country’s space-based disaster monitoring system, enrich observation methods in key regions of China, and enhance disaster prevention and mitigation abilities in seven industries.
This article reflects a significant advancement in the space and defense industry over the past 25 years, as this is the first geosynchronous SAR satellite to be launched. This is an impressive technological development, as it allows for more accurate and reliable monitoring of disasters and other changes in the environment. Additionally, this technology is expected to provide improved and expanded services to seven industries.
Investigative
Question:
- 1. How will the L SAR4 01 satellite improve disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities in the seven industries it serves?
- 2. What technological improvements enabled the development of the L SAR4 01?
- 3.
How will the L SAR4 01 satellite’s one-day revisit period compare to the revisit period of other SAR satellites?4. What safety measures are in place to ensure the successful operation of the L SAR4 01 satellite?
5. How will the L SAR4 01 satellite impact research and development in the space and defense industry?
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