# Gaofen 12-02
**Wikidata**: [Q122989364](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q122989364)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gaofen-12-02

## Summary
Gaofen 12-02 is a Chinese Earth observation and reconnaissance satellite launched on March 30, 2021. It operates in a low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 600 kilometers and is part of China's Gaofen satellite series for high-resolution imaging.

## Key Facts
- Launched on March 30, 2021, from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center
- Operates in a low Earth orbit with an apoapsis of 600.8 km and periapsis of 596.5 km
- Has an orbital period of 96.65 minutes and inclination of 97.90 degrees
- Classified as both an Earth observation satellite and reconnaissance satellite
- Launched using a Long March 4C carrier rocket
- Has COSPAR ID 2021-026A and NSSDCA ID 48079
- Part of the Gaofen 12 satellite series
- Country of origin: People's Republic of China

### Q: What is the purpose of Gaofen 12-02?
A: Gaofen 12-02 serves as both an Earth observation satellite and reconnaissance satellite, collecting high-resolution imagery for civilian and military applications. It provides detailed data for mapping, environmental monitoring, and intelligence gathering.

### Q: How was Gaofen 12-02 launched?
A: Gaofen 12-02 was launched on March 30, 2021, using a Long March 4C carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China's Gansu Province.

### Q: What orbit does Gaofen 12-02 operate in?
A: The satellite operates in a low Earth orbit at approximately 600 kilometers altitude, with an orbital period of 96.65 minutes and an inclination of 97.90 degrees.

## Why It Matters
Gaofen 12-02 represents a significant advancement in China's Earth observation capabilities, providing high-resolution imagery for both civilian and military applications. As part of the Gaofen series, it enhances China's ability to monitor environmental changes, support disaster response, and gather intelligence. The satellite's dual classification as both an Earth observation and reconnaissance satellite demonstrates China's integrated approach to space-based surveillance and monitoring. Its deployment strengthens China's position in the global space race and contributes to the country's growing constellation of remote sensing satellites, which are crucial for national security, economic development, and scientific research.

## Notable For
- Part of China's high-resolution Earth observation system, providing sub-meter resolution imagery
- Dual-purpose design serving both civilian Earth observation and military reconnaissance needs
- Launched as part of China's ambitious Gaofen program to create a comprehensive Earth observation network
- Operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, enabling consistent lighting conditions for imaging
- Represents China's growing capabilities in space-based intelligence and surveillance systems

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Gaofen 12-02 operates in a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 600 kilometers altitude, with an orbital period of 96.65 minutes. The satellite's orbit has an inclination of 97.90 degrees, allowing it to cover most of Earth's surface. Its dual classification as both an Earth observation and reconnaissance satellite indicates its capability to provide high-resolution imagery for multiple applications.

### Launch Details
The satellite was successfully launched on March 30, 2021, at 00:44 UTC from Launch Complex 9401 at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The Long March 4C rocket, a three-stage launch vehicle, carried Gaofen 12-02 into its designated orbit. This launch marked China's 14th orbital mission of 2021.

### Mission Profile
As part of the Gaofen series, Gaofen 12-02 contributes to China's high-resolution Earth observation system. The satellite is designed to provide sub-meter resolution optical imagery, supporting applications in land surveying, urban planning, road network design, agriculture, and disaster prevention and mitigation. Its reconnaissance capabilities also serve military and intelligence purposes, making it a versatile asset in China's space-based surveillance network.

### Operational Characteristics
The satellite's sun-synchronous orbit ensures consistent lighting conditions for imaging, which is crucial for comparative analysis and change detection. With its 96.65-minute orbital period, Gaofen 12-02 can potentially revisit the same location multiple times per day, depending on its swath width and imaging capabilities. This frequent revisit capability enhances its utility for both civilian and military applications, allowing for near-real-time monitoring of dynamic situations on Earth's surface.