Question 1

What rocket is launching Tianlian 1-04?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 1-04 is launching on the Long March 3C.

Question 2

Who is launching Tianlian 1-04?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 1-04 is being launched by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, a government launch provider founded in 1999.

Question 3

Where is Tianlian 1-04 launching from?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 1-04 is launching from Launch Complex 2 (LC-2) at Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China.

Question 4

What orbit is Tianlian 1-04 heading to?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 1-04 is heading to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).

Question 5

Is the Long March 3C reusable?

Accepted Answer

No — the Long March 3C is an expendable launch vehicle.

Question 6

How many times has the Long March 3C flown?

Accepted Answer

The Long March 3C has launched 14 times to date, with 14 successful flights.

Question 7

What is the Tianlian 1-04 mission?

Accepted Answer

Tianlian 1 is a Chinese data tracking and relay communications satellite series. Tianlian 1-04 is the fourth satellite in the constellation. It provides communication coverage for the crewed Shenzhou missions, from Shenzhou 7 onwards. Functionally, it is similar to the United States Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRS).

Tianlian 1-04

Overview

Mission details

Launch Window

Launch Complex 2 (LC-2)

Xichang Satellite Launch Center, People's Republic of China

Frequently asked questions