Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)
Long March 2C
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Mission
Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)
- Type: Astrophysics
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
The Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) is a French/Chinese planned small X-ray telescope satellite under development by China National Space Administration (CNSA) and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES).
SVOM will study the explosions of massive stars by analysing the resulting gamma-ray bursts. The lightweight X-ray mirror for SVOM weighs just 1 kg (2.2 lb). SVOM will add new capabilities to the work of finding gamma-ray bursts currently being done by the multinational satellite Swift.
Its anti-solar pointing strategy makes the Earth cross the field of view of its payload every orbit.
Location
Launch Complex 3 (LC-3/LA-1)
Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China
Launch Complex 3 (LC-3/LA-1) has witnessed the launch of 94 rockets, including 94 orbital launch attempts, while Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People’s Republic of China, has been the site for 213 rocket launches.
Rocket
Agency
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.