# Dongfanghong-3 2

> Chinese communications satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q18327643](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18327643)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/dongfanghong-3-2

## Summary
Dongfanghong-3 2 (DFH-3 2) is a Chinese communications satellite launched on May 11, 1997, as part of the Dongfanghong-3 series. It was launched by a Long March 3A rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center and is notable for being one of China's early geostationary communications satellites.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite, part of the Dongfanghong-3 family.
- **Launch Date**: May 11, 1997.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 3A.
- **Launch Site**: Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
- **Aliases**: DFH-3 2, Zhongxing 6 (ZX 6), ChinaSat 6.
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Dongfanghong-3.
- **Country of Origin**: People's Republic of China.
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-021A.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Dongfanghong-3 2?
A: Dongfanghong-3 2 is a communications satellite designed for telecommunications, part of China's early geostationary satellite fleet.

### Q: When was Dongfanghong-3 2 launched?
A: It was launched on May 11, 1997, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3A rocket.

### Q: What is the significance of Dongfanghong-3 2?
A: It was one of China's first geostationary communications satellites, contributing to the development of the country's space-based telecommunications infrastructure.

### Q: What are its other names?
A: It is also known as DFH-3 2, Zhongxing 6 (ZX 6), and ChinaSat 6.

### Q: What family of satellites does it belong to?
A: Dongfanghong-3 2 is part of the Dongfanghong-3 series of Chinese communications satellites.

## Why It Matters
Dongfanghong-3 2 played a crucial role in China's early efforts to establish a geostationary communications satellite system. As part of the Dongfanghong-3 family, it was designed to provide telecommunications services, supporting China's growing demand for satellite-based communication infrastructure. Its successful launch demonstrated China's capability to develop and deploy advanced satellite technology, contributing to the nation's space program and broader technological advancements. The satellite's operation helped bridge the digital divide and supported various applications, including broadcasting, telecommunications, and data transmission.

## Notable For
- One of China's first geostationary communications satellites.
- Launched using the Long March 3A rocket, a key Chinese orbital carrier.
- Operated as part of China's expanding satellite communications network.
- Known by multiple aliases, including Zhongxing 6 and ChinaSat 6.
- Part of the Dongfanghong-3 series, which was pivotal in China's early satellite communications.

## Body
### Overview
Dongfanghong-3 2 (DFH-3 2) is a communications satellite developed and operated by China. It was launched on May 11, 1997, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3A rocket. The satellite is part of the Dongfanghong-3 series, which was designed to provide telecommunications services in geostationary orbit.

### Technical Specifications
- **Spacecraft Bus**: Dongfanghong-3.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 3A.
- **Launch Date**: May 11, 1997.
- **COSPAR ID**: 1997-021A.

### Operational Details
- **Orbit**: Geostationary.
- **Primary Use**: Telecommunications.
- **Country of Origin**: People's Republic of China.

### Historical Context
- **Family**: Dongfanghong-3 series.
- **Aliases**: DFH-3 2, Zhongxing 6 (ZX 6), ChinaSat 6.

### Significance
Dongfanghong-3 2 was a milestone in China's space program, contributing to the nation's early satellite communications capabilities. It supported various applications, including broadcasting and data transmission, and helped advance China's technological infrastructure. The satellite's successful deployment was part of a broader effort to establish a robust space-based communication network.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report