Survey Mapping Satellite development advanced after China successfully launched a new Earth observation spacecraft. The mission strengthens national surveying and mapping capacity. Moreover, it supports long-term geographic information services.
On Tuesday, China launched the Ziyuan III 04 satellite from Shanxi Province. The launch took place at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. Authorities confirmed the launch occurred at 11:17 a.m. Beijing time.
A Long March-4B rocket carried the satellite into orbit. This mission marked the 617th launch of the Long March series. Therefore, it highlighted the reliability of China’s launch program.
The China Academy of Space Technology developed the satellite. The academy operates under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. Engineers designed the satellite for advanced mapping tasks.
According to developers, the satellite carries several sophisticated instruments. These include a three-line array camera system. It also includes a multispectral camera and a laser altimeter.
The three-line array camera captures images from multiple angles. Consequently, it creates detailed three-dimensional terrain data. This capability improves stereoscopic mapping accuracy.
Meanwhile, the multispectral camera collects detailed spectral information. Different materials reflect light uniquely. Therefore, analysts can identify land features precisely.
Experts use spectral data to assess farmland productivity. They also analyze vegetation coverage. Additionally, they monitor water quality and pollution levels.
The satellite also includes a laser altimeter system. This device measures surface elevation with high precision. As a result, it improves height correction in mapping products.
Developers compared the laser altimeter to a space-based measuring ruler. It achieves sub-meter accuracy from hundreds of kilometers above Earth. Therefore, it enhances elevation models.
The new spacecraft will replace an older satellite. Specifically, it takes over from the retired Ziyuan III 01. This transition ensures continuity of service.
Together with two existing satellites, the system now forms a constellation. The constellation improves coverage and data collection speed. Consequently, efficiency increases significantly.
Officials said the constellation boosts data acquisition capacity by 1.5 times. This improvement supports time-sensitive surveying tasks. Therefore, users receive data faster.
The Survey Mapping Satellite system supports multiple sectors. These include land management and environmental protection. Disaster monitoring also benefits from timely data.
By December 2025, the satellite series collected millions of images. Coverage reached over 137 million square kilometers globally. As a result, data supports global applications.
Authorities emphasized stable and reliable data supply. They aim to support economic planning and resource management. Moreover, accurate mapping aids infrastructure development.
Industry experts welcomed the launch. They noted growing demand for high-resolution geographic data. Therefore, the satellite supports digital transformation.
The mission also reflects China’s broader space strategy. Authorities continue to invest in space-based services. These services support national modernization goals.
International observers track China’s expanding satellite capabilities. Advanced mapping systems enhance competitiveness. Consequently, they strengthen technological leadership.
The Survey Mapping Satellite also supports scientific research. Researchers analyze terrain changes over time. Additionally, they study climate and environmental trends.
Looking ahead, engineers will test satellite performance. They will calibrate instruments carefully. Afterward, regular operations will begin.
Future launches may expand the constellation further. Additional satellites could enhance revisit frequency. Therefore, data quality will continue improving.
In conclusion, the Survey Mapping Satellite launch marks a significant milestone. It strengthens surveying accuracy and service capacity. Ultimately, it supports sustainable development and informed decision-making.
