Feng Yun 4 - Geo-stationary Earth Observation,
Remote Sensing, Meteorological Satellite System
A second-generation geo-stationary Meteorological Remote Sensing earth observation duel purpose satellite called Feng Yun 4 is reportedly in the proposal stage of development with in this Five Year Plan (FYP) 2006-2010. Its first launch is tentatively slated for 2013 typically in the middle of the next five year plan 2011-2015 now being finalized with substantially advanced imaging systems capability planned. This spacecraft has been designated as the first payload for the Long March-5 booster with a payload mass of 8-9 tons which is beyond the present operational launch vehicle capability that is limited to 5.2 tons.
The full instrument packages planned had not been decided upon in October 2008 as this YF-2 successor proposal is developed. It is expected to be more advanced than the existing FY-3’s but in large part based on proven technology with new additions and greater reliance on in country developed systems and longer lifetime durability per the new State science and technology requirements. That is it must be developed base on Chinese technological development assets and not be depend on foreign suppliers for internal self reliance and national security reasons. In some cases some of the systems may benefited in a kind of cross pollination within the industry from other spacecraft project highly successful demonstrated capabilities. Substantial systems applicable technological decisions, design, development and production work lies ahead for the project that is split between two five year plans with its origins being in the present FYP. This must receive both party and parliamentary approval beyond its existing State industry project development phase’s requirements. Some of these requirements may have already received tentative State approval. In all cases the organization involved in the project all work for the same central government employer. Seeing this new development announcement is another demonstration of the normal FYP development cycle that is totally predictable.
The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) intends to launch by the end of two FYP’s down the road ending in December 2020 a total of 22 meteorological satellites. With in that number the FY-2’s will constitute four of the launches while the FY-3’s will utilize 12 planned launches with six new FY-4’s launches also planned. Clearly the FY-4 series is aimed at achieving longer life durability verses the already flown existing satellite types of this series.
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