Question 1

What rocket is launching Tianlian 2-04?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 2-04 is launching on the Long March 3B/E.

Question 2

Who is launching Tianlian 2-04?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 2-04 is being launched by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, a government launch provider founded in 1999.

Question 3

Where is Tianlian 2-04 launching from?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 2-04 is launching from Launch Complex 2 (LC-2) at Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China.

Question 4

What orbit is Tianlian 2-04 heading to?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 2-04 is heading to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).

Question 5

Is the Long March 3B/E reusable?

Accepted Answer

No — the Long March 3B/E is an expendable launch vehicle.

Question 6

How many times has the Long March 3B/E flown?

Accepted Answer

The Long March 3B/E has launched 77 times to date, with 75 successful flights.

Question 7

What is the Tianlian 2-04 mission?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian is a Chinese data tracking and relay communications geostationary satellite series. The TL 2 (Tian Lian 2) satellites represent the second generation of this relay satellite network, and is based on the DFH-4 Bus, a three-axis-stabilized telecommunications satellite platform.

TL 2 will be used to support real-time communications between orbiting satellites and ground control stations. This system will replace the current network of ground-based space tracking and telemetry stations and space tracking ships.

Tianlian 2-04

Overview

Mission details

Launch Window

Launch Complex 2 (LC-2)

Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China

Frequently asked questions