# FSW-1 2

> Chinese reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q114110985](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q114110985)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/fsw-1-2

## Summary
FSW-1 2 is a Chinese reconnaissance satellite and part of the Fanhui Shi Weixing-1 (FSW-1) program, launched on August 5, 1988. It was designed for intelligence-gathering missions and operated in low Earth orbit before reentering the atmosphere on August 13, 1988. Built by the China Association for Science and Technology, it was launched using a Long March 2C rocket from Jiuquan Launch Area 2B.

## Key Facts
- Launched on August 5, 1988 at 07:28:35 UTC from Jiuquan Launch Area 2B
- Reentered Earth’s atmosphere on August 13, 1988
- Mass: 2,130 kg (launch weight)
- Dimensions: Height 3.144 m, Diameter 2.200 m
- Part of the FSW-1 class of reconnaissance satellites
- Manufacturer: China Association for Science and Technology
- Launch vehicle: Long March 2C (variant Y8)
- COSPAR ID: 1988-067E
- Country of origin: People's Republic of China
- Aliases: FSW 11, JB-1A 2, Jianbing-1A 2, PRC 23

## FAQs
### Q: What is FSW-1 2?
A: FSW-1 2 is a Chinese reconnaissance satellite launched in 1988 as part of the Fanhui Shi Weixing-1 program. It was used for military and intelligence purposes and returned to Earth after completing its mission.

### Q: When was FSW-1 2 launched?
A: FSW-1 2 was launched on August 5, 1988, at 07:28:35 UTC from the Jiuquan Launch Area 2B in China.

### Q: How long was FSW-1 2 operational?
A: The satellite remained in orbit for approximately eight days, reentering Earth’s atmosphere on August 13, 1988.

## Why It Matters
FSW-1 2 represents a key milestone in China's early development of space-based reconnaissance capabilities. As part of the broader FSW program, it contributed to China's efforts to independently gather strategic intelligence through space technology during the late Cold War era. Its successful launch and operation demonstrated progress in both satellite design and launch capability within China’s space infrastructure. These missions laid the groundwork for more advanced imaging and surveillance systems that followed in later decades.

## Notable For
- Being among the earliest recoverable Chinese reconnaissance satellites
- Demonstrating China’s growing ability to conduct short-duration orbital reconnaissance missions
- Featuring a domestically manufactured design with precise recovery protocols
- Utilizing the reliable Long March 2C launcher for deployment
- Completing its full mission cycle—including atmospheric reentry—in under two weeks

## Body
### Mission Overview
FSW-1 2 was the second satellite in the Fanhui Shi Weixing-1 series, a class of recoverable reconnaissance satellites developed by China. It played a critical role in advancing China’s space-based intelligence collection during the late 1980s.

### Technical Specifications
The spacecraft had a launch mass of 2,130 kilograms and stood 3.144 meters tall with a diameter of 2.200 meters. These dimensions were typical for early-generation FSW satellites, which prioritized compactness and structural integrity for controlled reentry.

### Launch Details
- **Date**: August 5, 1988
- **Time**: 07:28:35 UTC
- **Location**: Jiuquan Launch Area 2B
- **Vehicle**: Long March 2C (Y8 variant)
- **Payload Deployment**: Successful insertion into low Earth orbit

### Operational Timeline
After achieving orbit, FSW-1 2 conducted a brief but complete reconnaissance mission. On August 13, 1988—eight days after launch—the satellite performed a controlled deorbit maneuver and safely reentered Earth’s atmosphere.

### Manufacturer and Development
Manufactured by the China Association for Science and Technology, the satellite reflects institutional involvement in national defense-related aerospace projects during the period. This aligns with broader trends in Chinese state-led technological advancement throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

### Legacy
FSW-1 2 contributed to the evolution of China’s space reconnaissance programs, setting precedents for future generations of imaging and data-collection platforms. Its mission validated key technologies such as orbital control, payload integration, and safe return procedures essential for subsequent classes of military satellites.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/fsw-1.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA310527.pdf)
4. [Source](https://www.go-taikonauts.com/images/newsletters_PDF/GoTaikonauts6.pdf)