China successfully launches new ocean observation satellite

Context

The Haiyang-2D (HY-2D) satellite, from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China, was launched.

About the Haiyang-2D (HY-2D) satellite

• The HY-2D is developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, and the carrier rocket by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology.

• Function: China successfully sent the ocean-monitoring satellite into orbit as part of its effort to build an all-weather and round-the-clock dynamic ocean environment monitoring system which would provide early warning on marine disasters.

• The satellite was launched by a Long March-4B rocket.

• The HY-2D will form a constellation with the HY-2B and HY-2C satellites to build an all-weather and round-the-clock dynamic ocean environment monitoring system of high frequency and medium and large scale.

• The constellation will support the country’s early warning and prediction of marine disasters, sustainable development and utilisation of ocean resources, effective response to global climate change as well as ocean research.