China has successfully launched the Haiyang-2E (HY-2E) satellite, enhancing its ocean observation and environmental monitoring capabilities. The satellite was propelled into orbit by a Long March 4B rocket, which took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 7:46 a.m. Beijing time on Thursday. This mission represents the 654th launch in the history of the Long March rocket series.
Developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), the HY-2E satellite is the newest member of the Haiyang-2 series, which is China’s pioneering satellite network focused on marine dynamic environment observation. The HY-2E will take over from the HY-2B satellite, launched in 2018, and will operate alongside the existing HY-2C and HY-2D satellites. This constellation aims to deliver uninterrupted data to bolster marine observation and forecasting.
The HY-2E is outfitted with four state-of-the-art microwave remote sensing instruments, designed to gather comprehensive data on sea surface conditions. These instruments will provide crucial information on sea surface height, wave height, wind fields, and sea surface temperature. This data is expected to significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of marine weather forecasting, climate studies, and research into phenomena like El Niño.
Over the last decade, the Haiyang-2 satellite program has been instrumental in disaster prevention, enhancing maritime safety, and advancing scientific research. The data from these satellites has been vital for tracking typhoons, supporting tsunami early warning systems, and refining global numerical weather prediction models. Additionally, the satellites have aided in marine resource management and bolstered national maritime security.
Beyond these applications, the Haiyang-2 series offers tangible benefits for the fishing and shipping industries. Data on ocean currents, winds, and waves help in pinpointing productive fishing areas, enabling vessels to operate more efficiently and cost-effectively. Since the HY-2B launch, the satellites have been equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS), which allows for the continuous tracking of vessels’ positions, speeds, and identification details, thus enhancing navigation safety across major sea routes.