# FSW-3 2

> Chinese reconnaissance satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q111497423](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111497423)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/fsw-3-2

## Summary
FSW-3 2 is a Chinese reconnaissance satellite that was launched in 2004 as part of China's FSW program, designed to covertly collect intelligence and military data.

## Key Facts
- FSW-3 2 is a reconnaissance satellite launched on August 29, 2004 from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/94.
- It was launched using a Long March 2C carrier rocket.
- The satellite was manufactured by the China Association for Science and Technology.
- It had a diameter of 2.200 meters and a height of 5.144 meters.
- Its COSPAR and NSSDCA identification number is 2004-033A.
- It was part of the Fanhui Shi Weixing-3 program, the fourth class of Chinese reconnaissance satellites.
- The satellite was in orbit until September 25, 2004 when it experienced atmospheric entry.

## FAQs
### Q: When was FSW-3 2 launched?
A: FSW-3 2 was launched on August 29, 2004 at 07:50:05 from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/94.

### Q: What was its purpose?
A: FSW-3 2 was a reconnaissance satellite designed to covertly collect intelligence and military data for China.

### Q: Who manufactured it?
A: The China Association for Science and Technology manufactured FSW-3 2.

### Q: What was its orbital lifespan?
A: The satellite was in orbit from August 29, 2004 until September 25, 2004 when it experienced atmospheric entry.

## Why It Matters
FSW-3 2 represents China's continued development of reconnaissance capabilities as part of its broader military and intelligence infrastructure. As part of the Fanhui Shi Weixing-3 program, it contributes to China's ability to gather strategic intelligence, supporting national security and military operations. The satellite's successful launch and operation demonstrate China's growing space capabilities and its commitment to maintaining surveillance capabilities in the region.

## Notable For
- It was launched in 2004 as part of China's FSW program, representing the fourth generation of Chinese reconnaissance satellites.
- The satellite had specific dimensions with a diameter of 2.200 meters and height of 5.144 meters.
- It was identified by the COSPAR and NSSDCA designation 2004-033A.
- It was manufactured by the China Association for Science and Technology, a government-affiliated organization.
- The satellite's orbital lifespan was approximately one month before atmospheric entry.

## Body
### Technical Specifications
FSW-3 2 is a reconnaissance satellite with the following technical characteristics:
- **Dimensions**: The satellite has a diameter of 2.200 meters and a height of 5.144 meters.
- **Launch Vehicle**: It was launched using a Long March 2C carrier rocket.
- **Launch Site**: The launch occurred from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/94.
- **Manufacturer**: The China Association for Science and Technology was responsible for manufacturing the satellite.

### Program and Classification
The FSW-3 2 satellite belongs to the Fanhui Shi Weixing-3 program, which represents the fourth class of Chinese reconnaissance satellites. This program is part of China's broader space program and military capabilities.

### Operational History
- **Launch**: The satellite was successfully launched on August 29, 2004 at 07:50:05 from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/94.
- **Orbital Period**: The satellite remained in orbit until September 25, 2004 when it experienced atmospheric entry.
- **Mission Duration**: The satellite was operational for approximately one month before reentry.

### Identification and Tracking
The satellite is identified by the COSPAR and NSSDCA designation 2004-033A. It has the WOLFRAM entity code Entity["Satellite", "28402"] and was assigned the satellite catalog number 28402. The satellite had several aliases including FSW 19, Jianbing-4 1, JB-4 1, and FSW-4 1.

## References

1. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/fsw-4.htm)
2. Jonathan's Space Report
3. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20111109011800/http://www.sinodefence.com/space/military/fsw.asp)
4. [Source](https://www.go-taikonauts.com/images/newsletters_PDF/GoTaikonauts6.pdf)