Operator CASC SATCAT no. 32779 Bus DFH-3 Launch date 25 April 2008 Mission type Communications satellite Reference system Geocentric orbit | COSPAR ID 2008-019A Spacecraft type Tianlian I Launch site Xichang LC-2 Rocket Long March 3C Regime Geostationary orbit | |
Manufacturer China Academy of Space Technology Similar Yinghuo‑1, Chang'e 1, China–Brazil Earth Resource, Chang'e 2, Chinese large modular s | ||
Tianlian I-01 (Simplified Chinese: 天链一号01星, Traditional Chinese: 天鏈一號01星) is the first Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) launched by People's Republic of China, and the first satellite of Tianlian I TDRS series.
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The satellite
The satellite has multiple roles and will especially serve for China's manned spaceflight. Its first task could be for the Shenzhou 7 communication.
Launch
The satellite was launched successfully by the Long March 3C rocket in Xichang Satellite Launch Centre at local time 23:35 April 25, 2008. It was the 105th launch of the Long March Rocket Family.
The rocket had 3 stages, 2 roll boosters, a 55 m height; and was liquid-fueled. Its initial weight was ~343 t.
00:00 April 26, 2008, the Xi'an Satellite Control Centre received the feedback signal, which showed the satellite accurately entered its predesigned orbit.
08:25 GMT April 30, 2008, the satellite was announced to be successfully set at E. 77 degrees over the equator.