Xuntian Telescope
Long March 5B
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Mission
Xuntian Telescope
- Type: Astrophysics
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
Xuntian, formerly known as the Chinese Space Station Telescope (CSST), is a Chinese space telescope designed to perform high-resolution, large-area, multi-band imaging and slit-less spectroscopy surveys of the sky at ultraviolet to infrared wavelengths of 255 – 1000 nm. The survey camera is slated to cover approximately 17500 square degrees of the sky in various bands, reaching maximum magnitudes of about 26.
Xuntian will carry a survey camera, a tera-hertz receiver, a multi-channel imager, an integral field spectrograph, and a cool planet imaging coronagraph.
Xuntian will be launched to a Low Earth Orbit that will be co-orbiting with the Tiangong space station/Chinese Space Station, which will allow for periodic docking with the station for regular maintenance by astronauts.
Location
101
Wenchang Space Launch Site, People's Republic of China
101 has witnessed the launch of 17 rockets, including 17 orbital launch attempts. While Wenchang Space Launch Site, People's Republic of China, has been the site for 59 rocket launches.
The Wenchang Space Launch Site is a rocket launch site located in Wenchang on the island of Hainan, in China.
Formally a suborbital test center, it currently serves as China's southernmost spaceport. The site was selected for its low latitude, 19° north of the equator, allowing for larger payloads to be launched. It is capable of launching the Long March 5, the heaviest Chinese rocket. Unlike launch facilities on the mainland, Wenchang uses its seaport for deliveries.
Rocket
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B
The configuration of the CZ-5B variant consists of the Long March 5 core stage with its four strapped-on liquid-fueled boosters, but the usual second stage will be absent; in place of the second stage would be heavier low earth orbit payloads.
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.
Learn more about China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope launch scheduled?
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope launch is currently scheduled for:
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Launch times are subject to change based on weather conditions, technical readiness, and range availability. Check back regularly for the most up-to-date launch time and status updates.
Where is the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope mission launching from?
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B rocket will launch from 101 at Wenchang Space Launch Site, People's Republic of China. The Wenchang Space Launch Site is a rocket launch site located in Wenchang on the island of Hainan, in China. <br> <br>Formally a suborbital test center, it currently serves as China's southernmost spaceport. The site was selected for its low latitude, 19° north of the equator, allowing for larger payloads to be launched. It is capable of launching the Long March 5, the heaviest Chinese rocket. Unlike launch facilities on the mainland, Wenchang uses its seaport for deliveries. For viewing location recommendations and tips, check the launch location details above.
What rocket is being used for the Xuntian Telescope mission?
The Xuntian Telescope mission will launch aboard a China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B rocket. The configuration of the CZ-5B variant consists of the Long March 5 core stage with its four strapped-on liquid-fueled boosters, but the usual second stage will be absent; in place of the second stage would be heavier low earth orbit payloads. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could delay the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope launch?
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope launch can be delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites. Check the launch weather forecast above for current conditions and probability of favorable weather.
How can I get updates if the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B Xuntian Telescope launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation Long March 5B launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the Xuntian Telescope mission. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation live streams for the most immediate range updates.