Science
JILIN-1 08
Chinese Commercial Imaging / Video (Dual-Use) · Chang Guang Satellite Technology (CGSTL)
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The eighth satellite in China's first commercial Earth observation constellation, operated by Chang Guang Satellite Technology (CGSTL) — a spin-off from the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Changchun Institute of Optics. Jilin-1-08 is part of the 'Shipin' (Smart Video) sub-series, capturing 4K HD video of the Earth's surface at approximately 1.2 meter resolution from 330 miles. Jilin-1 drew global attention when it released footage of a US Air Force F-22 Raptor in flight — then drew controversy in March 2026 when it published detailed post-strike damage imagery of US military bases in the Middle East during the Iran conflict, at a time when Planet Labs and Maxar had restricted their imagery at the US government's request. The constellation's 'military-civil fusion' DNA means commercial data and national security are not separate considerations in this program.
Its orbit
- Orbit
- Low Earth Orbitcan appear as a fast-moving star at dawn or dusk
- Altitude
- 286–293 mi (460–471 km)
- Inclination
- 97.2°
- One orbit
- 93.8 minutes15.4 orbits a day
- NORAD ID
- 43160
- Int’l designator
- 2018-008F
- Launched
- 2018
Orbital elements from CelesTrak, as of 22 Sep 2026.
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