FSW-3 [CAST]
FSW-3 [CAST] |
The FSW-3 (Fanhui Shi Weixing) or JB-4 series is the most recent series of chinese recoverable satellites. These satellites feature cameras for earth observation and probably microgravity experiments.
The first was launched in late 2003 on a CZ-2D (stretched) launch vehicle.
The second launch was unique in all FSW missions, as it used a shrouded CZ-2C-III launch vehicle, instead of the aerodynamically shaped satellite beeing launched unshrouded. Possibly the launch vehicle was left over from the Iridium launch program. The fourth launch used the same configuration.
The lifetime of the first mission was 24 days, the second was 27 days. The third
returned after 18 days, destroying the roof of a house during landing.
| Nation: | China |
|---|---|
| Type / Application: | Reconnaisance, Earth observation, Micro-gravity |
| Operator: | |
| Contractors: | CAST |
| Equipment: | |
| Configuration: | |
| Propulsion: | FG-23A retro motor ? |
| Lifetime: | 24 - 27 days |
| Mass: | |
| Orbit: |
| Satellite | Date | LS | Launcher | Remarks: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FSW-3 1 (FSW 18, JB-2 1) | 03.11.2003 | Jq | CZ-2D (str.) | ||
| FSW-3 2 (FSW 19, JB-4 1) | 29.08.2004 | Jq | CZ-2C-III | ||
| FSW-3 3 (FSW 20, JB-2 2) | 27.09.2004 | Jq | CZ-2D (str.) | ||
| FSW-3 4 (FSW 21, JB-4 2) | 02.08.2005 | Jq | CZ-2C-III | ||
| FSW-3 5 (FSW 22, JB-2 3) | 29.08.2005 | Jq | CZ-2D (str.) |
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Last update: 27.09.2009
Contact: gunter.krebs@skyrocket.de
© Gunter Dirk Krebs