CLASSIFIED
SHIJIAN-16 (SJ-16)
Technology Demonstrator · CASC / Chinese Academy of Sciences
Right now
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Shijian-16, a Chinese technology and remote sensing satellite launched in 2013 into an unusual 75° inclination orbit distinct from most Chinese Earth observation satellites. Officially described as testing new space environment monitoring and materials technologies, Shijian-16's specific capabilities remain undisclosed — consistent with the Shijian designation's long-standing role as a flexible cover for Chinese satellites whose full military or intelligence utility China prefers not to publicize.
Its orbit
- Orbit
- Low Earth Orbitcan appear as a fast-moving star at dawn or dusk
- Altitude
- 362–376 mi (583–605 km)
- Inclination
- 75.0°
- One orbit
- 96.4 minutes14.9 orbits a day
- NORAD ID
- 39358
- Int’l designator
- 2013-057A
- Launched
- 2013
Orbital elements from CelesTrak, as of 22 Sep 2026.
More classified
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