Science
GAOFEN-1 03
High-Resolution Wide-Area Imaging · CNSA / CRESDA
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The second of three Gaofen-1 follow-on satellites. China's strategy of deploying multiple identical satellites in constellation — accepting slightly lower capability per satellite for dramatically higher coverage frequency — mirrors the Copernicus approach that transformed European Earth observation.
Its orbit
- Orbit
- Low Earth Orbitcan appear as a fast-moving star at dawn or dusk
- Altitude
- 400–402 mi (643–646 km)
- Inclination
- 98.0°
- One orbit
- 97.5 minutes14.8 orbits a day
- NORAD ID
- 43260
- Int’l designator
- 2018-031B
- Launched
- 2018
Orbital elements from CelesTrak, as of 7 Nov 2026.
More science
- GAOFEN-1 04High-Resolution Wide-Area Imaging
- GAOFEN-14 01Chinese Stereo Mapping Satellite (Dual-Use)
- GAOFEN-2Sub-meter Earth Observation
- GAOFEN-3SAR Earth Observation
- GAOFEN-3 02Chinese SAR Earth Observation Satellite
- GAOFEN-3 03Chinese SAR Earth Observation Satellite