China launched a new Earth-observation satellite on Sunday, the Gaofen 12 (04). The satellite was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China using a Long March 4C rocket.
The Gaofen 12 (04) is a microwave remote-sensing satellite, meaning it carries synthetic aperture radar payloads. These payloads can create images of the Earth's surface even at night or through clouds.
The satellite will be used for a variety of purposes, including land surveys, urban planning, road network design, crop yield estimation, and disaster relief. It will also be used for scientific research, such as studying the Earth's climate and environment.
The launch of the Gaofen 12 (04) is part of China's ambitious space program. The country has launched a number of Earth-observation satellites in recent years, and it plans to launch even more in the coming years.
The launch of the Gaofen 12 (04) was a success. The satellite was placed into a near-polar orbit, and it is now in good condition. It is expected to begin operating in the coming weeks.
The launch of the Gaofen 12 (04) is a significant development for China's space program. The satellite will provide valuable data for a variety of applications, and it will help China to improve its understanding of the Earth and its environment.