BeiDou Navigation Satellite System logo.
November 6, 2019
Long March 3B launches latest Beidou-3M satellites
A Long March-3B rocket launched the third BeiDou-3 navigation satellite in an Inclined Geosynchronous Orbit (BDS-3 IGSO-3), from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Sichuan Province, southwest China, on 4 November 2019, at 17:43 UTC (5 November, at 01:43 local time).
Long March-3B launches BeiDou-3 IGSO-3
BDS-3 IGSO-3 is the 49th satellite of the BDS satellite family, the 24th satellite of the BDS-3 system and the third BeiDou-3 navigation satellite to be positioned in an Inclined Geosynchronous Orbit.
The MEO satellites are the Medium Earth Orbit component of the third phase of the Chinese Beidou (Compass) satellite navigation system. The satellites are part of a fleet that will expand the system into global navigation coverage.
Render of a BeiDou-3 satellite by J. Huart.
The satellites are using a bus that features a phased array antenna for navigation signals and a laser retroreflector, with a launch mass 1,014 kg. Spacecraft dimensions are noted to be 2.25 by 1.0 by 1.22 meters. Usually, the satellites reside in a 21,500 – 21,400 km nominal orbit at 55.5 degrees.
BeiDou Navigation Satellites Constellation
Navigation satellite systems are public resources shared by the whole globe, and multi-system compatibility and interoperability have become a trend. China applies the principle that “BDS is developed by China, and dedicated to the world”, serving the development of the Silk Road Economic Belt, and actively pushing forward international cooperation related to BDS. As BDS joins hands with other navigation satellite systems, China will work with all other countries, regions and international organizations to promote global satellite navigation development and make BDS further serve the world and benefit mankind.
For more information about Beidou navigation system: http://www.beidou.gov.cn/
For more information about China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC): http://english.spacechina.com/n16421/index.html
Images, Video, Text, Credits: Credits: CASC/BeiDou/China Central Television (CCTV)/SciNews.
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