Tianlian 2-04
Long March 3B/E
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Rocket Launch Video
Weather Forecast During Launch
The forecast calls for a temperature of 53°F, clear skies, 9% cloud cover and a wind speed of 4mph.
Mission
Tianlian 2-04
- Type: Communications
- Orbit: Geostationary Transfer Orbit
- Launch Cost: $70,000,000
Tianlian is a Chinese data tracking and relay communications geostationary satellite series. The TL 2 (Tian Lian 2) satellites represent the second generation of this relay satellite network, and is based on the DFH-4 Bus, a three-axis-stabilized telecommunications satellite platform.
TL 2 will be used to support real-time communications between orbiting satellites and ground control stations. This system will replace the current network of ground-based space tracking and telemetry stations and space tracking ships.
Location
Launch Complex 2 (LC-2)
Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China
Launch Complex 2 (LC-2) has witnessed the launch of 117 rockets, including 117 orbital launch attempts. While Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China, has been the site for 223 rocket launches.
The Xichang Satellite Launch Center is a spaceport in China. It is located in Zeyuan Town, northwest of Xichang, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan.
Rocket
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 3B/E
The Long March 3B / E (G2) (CZ-3B / E) is one of the most successful medium-range launchers and the strongest variant of the CZ-3 series.
It was specially developed for the transport of heavy communications satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit.
The additional designation "E" stands for a higher payload fairing, stretched boosters and extended fuel tanks at the first stage, over the CZ-3B.
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.
