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China Successfully Launches Tianlian-2 (05) Data Relay Satellite to Enhance Space Station Communications.

Science and Technology | Dated: 30 Apr 2025

On April 27, 2025, China successfully launched the Tianlian-2 (05) satellite, a second-generation geostationary orbit (GEO) data relay satellite. The launch was carried out using a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center located in Sichuan Province, Southwest China. The satellite was placed into a geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) and will later maneuver into its final GEO position at 35,786 km above the equator.

🎯 Key Highlights:

- This launch marked the 572nd flight of the Long March carrier rocket family and represented China's 22nd orbital launch in 2025, showcasing the country’s increasing frequency of space missions and capabilities in orbital transportation systems.
- The Tianlian-2 (05) satellite was developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), based in Beijing. CAST is a key subsidiary of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), which oversees various space development projects in China, particularly satellites and space station modules.
- The satellite is designed to provide data relay, Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TT&C) services. These capabilities support a wide range of missions including manned spacecraft like spaceships and space stations, medium and low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and various spacecraft launches, ensuring real-time communication and mission control.

💡 Other Important Facts:

(i) Tianlian-2 (05) is built on the Dong Fang Hong 4 (DFH-4) satellite platform, which is an advanced high-capacity bus system. It offers higher bandwidth, faster data transmission rates, and a robust operational lifespan of up to 15 years, making it a critical addition to China’s space communications infrastructure.
(ii) The Tianlian system began with the launch of Tianlian-1 (01) in 2008. The first-generation satellites (01, 02, and 03) are now retired and moved to graveyard orbits. The active fleet now includes Tianlian-1 (04 and 05) and Tianlian-2 (01 to 05), providing broad and consistent relay coverage for China’s space missions.
(iii) In recent developments, China launched two more satellites in February 2025—Siwei Gaojing-1 03 and 04—using a Long March-2C rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. Developed by Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST), these satellites support natural resource monitoring, urban planning, and other commercial remote sensing applications.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

What is the name of the data relay satellite recently launched by China to support space station communications?

Correct Answer: Tianlian-2 (05)

🚀 Quick Recap:

About China

President : Xi Jinping
Capital : Beijing