# Dongfanghong-2A 3

> Chinese communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q18327646](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18327646)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dongfanghong-2a-3

## Summary
Dongfanghong-2A 3 is a Chinese communications satellite launched on December 22, 1988. It is an instance of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model and is part of the broader Dong Fang Hong series of Chinese communications satellites. This satellite is also associated with the Chinasat class of communications satellites.

## Key Facts
- Dongfanghong-2A 3 is a Chinese communications satellite.
- It was launched on December 22, 1988.
- The launch took place from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
- Its launch vehicle was the Long March 3 rocket.
- It is an instance of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model of satellites.
- Dongfanghong-2A 3 is part of the Dong Fang Hong series of communications satellites.
- It is also associated with the Chinasat class of communications satellites.
- Its country of origin is the People's Republic of China.
- The satellite's COSPAR ID is 1988-111A.
- It is known by several aliases, including DFH-2A 3, STTW 3, and ChinaSat 2.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Dongfanghong-2A 3?
A: Dongfanghong-2A 3 is a Chinese communications satellite. It is part of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model and the broader Dong Fang Hong series, as well as the Chinasat class of satellites.

### Q: When was Dongfanghong-2A 3 launched?
A: Dongfanghong-2A 3 was launched on December 22, 1988. This event is recorded with the COSPAR ID 1988-111A.

### Q: What rocket was used to launch Dongfanghong-2A 3?
A: Dongfanghong-2A 3 was launched using a Long March 3 rocket. The launch occurred from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

### Q: What are some alternative names for Dongfanghong-2A 3?
A: Dongfanghong-2A 3 is known by several aliases, including DFH-2A 3, Shiyan Tongbu Tongxing Weixing 3, STTW 3, PRC 25, ZX 2, ChinaSat 2, Zhongxing 2, and STTW-3.

## Why It Matters
Dongfanghong-2A 3 holds significance as a Chinese communications satellite, contributing to the People's Republic of China's capabilities in space-based communication. As an instance of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model and part of the broader Dong Fang Hong series, its launch marked a continued development in China's domestic satellite technology and infrastructure. The successful deployment of Dongfanghong-2A 3 by a Long March 3 rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center demonstrated China's growing prowess in independent space launch and satellite operations during the late 1980s. Communications satellites like Dongfanghong-2A 3 are crucial for establishing and maintaining telecommunications links, broadcasting services, and other data transmission needs, playing a vital role in national development and connectivity. Its operation under the Chinasat class further underscores its function within China's national satellite communication network. This satellite, therefore, represents a tangible step in China's long-term strategy for space utilization and its commitment to developing indigenous space technology for practical applications.

## Notable For
- Being a specific communications satellite launched by the People's Republic of China on December 22, 1988.
- Its classification as an instance of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model, a series of Chinese communications satellites.
- Its launch using a Long March 3 rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
- Its inclusion within the Chinasat class, indicating its role in China's national satellite communications.

## Body
### Overview
Dongfanghong-2A 3 is a Chinese communications satellite. Its primary function is to facilitate communication services. The satellite is identified with the SCN 19710 and COSPAR ID 1988-111A.

### Launch and Operations
*   **Launch Date:** Dongfanghong-2A 3 was launched on December 22, 1988.
*   **Launch Site:** The launch originated from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** A Long March 3 rocket was used for its deployment.
*   **Significant Event:** The launch itself is noted as a significant event in its operational history.
*   **Country of Origin:** The satellite originates from the People's Republic of China.

### Classification and Affiliation
*   **Model:** Dongfanghong-2A 3 is an instance of the Dong Fang Hong 2 model of Chinese communications satellites.
*   **Series:** It is part of the broader Dong Fang Hong series of communications satellites.
*   **Operator/Class:** The satellite is also associated with the Chinasat class, which comprises communications satellites operated by China Satellite Communications.

### Aliases
Dongfanghong-2A 3 is known by several alternative names, including:
*   Dong Fang Hong-2A 3
*   DFH-2A 3
*   Shiyan Tongbu Tongxing Weixing 3
*   STTW 3
*   PRC 25
*   ZX 2
*   ChinaSat 2
*   Zhongxing 2
*   STTW-3

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report