On November 25, China successfully launched two autonomous satellites from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 2C rocket.
The two world’s first autonomous satellites, Siwei Gaojing-2 03 and Gaojing-2 04, developed by the Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST), are set to revolutionize Earth observation. Unlike traditional satellites that require continuous control from ground stations to maneuver, the new pair can maintain and adjust their orbits independently without human intervention.
The autonomous satellites Siwei Gaojing-2 03 and Gaojing-2 04 launched into space. (Photo: CGTN).
To achieve this, the developers utilized various advanced systems for the satellites, including Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology and high-precision radar. SAR technology enables the pair of satellites to see through clouds, fog, and darkness, providing continuous observation regardless of weather conditions or time of day. This capability is crucial for many applications, from monitoring natural resources and urban infrastructure to supporting disaster response and military surveillance.
The automated operation technology offers numerous benefits, reducing the need for continuous ground control, thereby freeing up valuable resources and personnel. This technology also enhances the satellites’ responsiveness, enabling them to quickly adapt to changing mission requirements or unexpected events.
Gaojing-2 03 and Gaojing-2 04 are part of the Siwei commercial remote sensing satellite network project. This project, led by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), aims to establish a network of at least 28 satellites to provide comprehensive Earth observation data for various industries and applications.
In the field of natural resource management, the satellites will contribute to monitoring forests, water sources, and mineral deposits, providing valuable data for sustainable resource management. Their ability to capture images in all weather conditions will allow for continuous monitoring of critical infrastructure, assisting in the detection of potential issues and ensuring public safety. In the event of a disaster, they can quickly provide images of the affected areas, aiding authorities in damage assessment and relief efforts.
