The assembly of Fengyun-2's No. 4 meteorological satellite
independently developed by China has so far been completed and
relating tests are underway. It is predicted that China will launch
the satellite in the later half of this year.
The Fengyun-2's No. 4 meteorological satellite, a geo-static one
will be positioned in the space right over the equator. Its
observation scope covers the Asia and pacific area. Apart from
infra cloud and vapor distribution graphics, it is capable to
observe forest and prairie fires, foggy weather and sandstorms.
According to Li Yunqing, Chief designer of the satellite:
compared with the two satellites launched before, the biggest
improvement of the Fengyun-2's No. 4 satellite is its scan
radiometer with five channels instead of three, two more channels
than its predecessors. The satellite's resolution and accuracy of
observation are greatly enhanced too.
The satellite will be launched in the later half of this year.
By then it is able to provide other countries with free cloud maps.
The development and launch has roused great attention because all
meteorological satellites over the Asia and Pacific area have
exceeded their life span. To meet the urgent needs for weather
forecast, environment and climate inspection, China is now speeding
up the development of new generations of Fengyun-3 and-4
meteorological satellites.
(People's Daily February 29, 2004)