Space

Tian Hui-1

Chinese Mapping, ERTS Satellite

9-02-10

The new Tian Hui-1 mapping satellite was launched on CZ-2D two stage booster on August 24, 2010 into a high inclination 97 degree to a 500 kilometer circular near polar orbit. The earth mapping resources satellite is intended to both map the desired regions of China but to identify resources not otherwise apparent for economic development. The satellite developer builder is the Dong Fang Hong company which operates under the Chinese Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAST). Tian Hui-1 satellite utilizes a three dimensional survey camera along with a CCD multi-spectral Camera with 5 meter resolution and a multi-spectral Camera with a ground resolution of 10 meters. Providing images covering 60 kilometers on edge. More of these mapping satellites are expected to be launched from China soon.