# Gaofen 1-01

> first Gaofen satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q12230697](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12230697)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaofen_1)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gaofen-1-01

## Summary
Gaofen 1-01 is the first satellite launched as part of China's Gaofen program, an Earth observation satellite operated by the China National Space Administration and launched on April 26, 2013 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 2D rocket.

## Key Facts
- The first satellite in China's Gaofen Earth observation program
- Launched on April 26, 2013 from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center
- Operated by the China National Space Administration
- Used a Long March 2D carrier rocket for launch
- Has the Cospar ID 2013-018A
- Classified as an Earth observation satellite
- Part of the Gaofen program for Earth observation

## FAQs
### Q: What is Gaofen 1-01?
A: It is the first satellite launched as part of China's Gaofen Earth observation program, designed to observe Earth from orbit.

### Q: When was Gaofen 1-01 launched?
A: It was launched on April 26, 2013 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

### Q: What program is Gaofen 1-01 part of?
A: It is part of China's Gaofen program for Earth observation satellites.

## Why It Matters
Gaofen 1-01 represents a significant advancement in China's Earth observation capabilities, marking the beginning of a comprehensive satellite constellation designed to provide continuous monitoring of Earth's surface. The satellite's launch in 2013 was part of China's strategic effort to develop independent Earth observation infrastructure, reducing reliance on foreign systems and enabling applications in disaster monitoring, environmental assessment, and resource management. As the first satellite in the Gaofen program, it established the technical foundation and operational framework that would be expanded through subsequent launches, contributing to China's growing space-based surveillance and monitoring capabilities.

## Notable For
- First satellite in China's Gaofen Earth observation program
- Launched using a Long March 2D carrier rocket
- Operated by China National Space Administration
- Has the Cospar ID 2013-018A
- Part of a larger constellation for Earth observation

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Gaofen 1-01 is an Earth observation satellite designed specifically for monitoring Earth from orbit. It was launched on April 26, 2013 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 2D carrier rocket. The satellite operates under the China National Space Administration and carries the Cospar ID 2013-018A.

### Program Context
As the inaugural member of China's Gaofen program, Gaofen 1-01 represents the first step in establishing a comprehensive Earth observation constellation. The program aims to provide continuous, high-resolution imagery of Earth's surface for various applications including disaster response, environmental monitoring, and resource management. The satellite's successful launch and operation demonstrated China's capability to develop and deploy advanced Earth observation systems independently.

### Operational Details
The satellite was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, a primary spaceport in China's Gobi Desert. The Long March 2D rocket provided the necessary thrust to place the satellite into orbit. As part of the Gaofen program, Gaofen 1-01 operates alongside subsequent satellites to form a comprehensive monitoring network. The China National Space Administration serves as the operator, responsible for mission control and data management.

### Technical Capabilities
While specific technical specifications are not detailed in the source material, the satellite's classification as an Earth observation satellite indicates it is equipped with sensors capable of capturing imagery of Earth's surface. The program's goal is to provide regular, high-resolution imagery for various applications including agricultural monitoring, urban planning, and environmental assessment.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report