# Beidou M3-S

> 41315

**Wikidata**: [Q23059129](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q23059129)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/beidou-m3-s

## Summary
Beidou M3-S is a Chinese navigation satellite launched on February 1, 2016, as part of the Beidou satellite navigation system. It was launched using a Long March 3C rocket and is identified by the COSPAR designation 2016-006A.

## Key Facts
- Launched on February 1, 2016, using a Long March 3C rocket
- Part of the Beidou satellite navigation system
- Identified by COSPAR designation 2016-006A
- Classified as both an artificial satellite and a navigation satellite
- Has a Wolfram Language entity code of Entity["Satellite", "41315"]
- Has only one Wikipedia language version (Latvian)
- Wikidata description is listed as "41315"

### Q: What is Beidou M3-S?
A: Beidou M3-S is a Chinese navigation satellite launched on February 1, 2016, as part of the Beidou satellite navigation system. It was launched using a Long March 3C rocket and serves navigation purposes.

### Q: When was Beidou M3-S launched?
A: Beidou M3-S was launched on February 1, 2016, using a Long March 3C rocket.

### Q: What system is Beidou M3-S part of?
A: Beidou M3-S is part of the Beidou satellite navigation system, which is China's global navigation satellite system.

## Why It Matters
Beidou M3-S represents China's continued investment in developing its own global navigation satellite system as an alternative to GPS. The launch of this satellite in 2016 contributed to the expansion and enhancement of the Beidou system, which provides positioning, navigation, and timing services not only to China but also to users across the Asia-Pacific region and eventually globally. As part of the Beidou constellation, M3-S helps ensure China's technological independence in critical infrastructure and supports various applications from military operations to civilian navigation and timing services.

## Notable For
- Part of China's Beidou global navigation satellite system
- Launched using China's reliable Long March 3C rocket
- Contributes to China's strategic goal of reducing dependence on GPS
- Represents the ongoing expansion of China's space capabilities
- Serves both civilian and military navigation purposes

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Beidou M3-S is identified by the satellite catalog number 41315 and has the COSPAR designation 2016-006A. The satellite was launched into orbit on February 1, 2016, marking its significant event as a rocket launch on that date.

### Launch Details
The satellite was launched using a Long March 3C rocket, which is a Chinese orbital carrier rocket. This launch vehicle has been used for multiple Beidou satellite launches, demonstrating China's consistent approach to deploying its navigation constellation.

### System Integration
As part of the Beidou system, M3-S contributes to China's independent global navigation capabilities. The Beidou system, also known as BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), provides an alternative to the American GPS, Russian GLONASS, and European Galileo systems.

### Classification
The satellite is classified as both an artificial satellite (human-made object put into orbit) and specifically as a navigation satellite designed for positioning and navigation services. This dual classification reflects its purpose-built nature for the Beidou navigation system.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report