# Huoju 1-01

> research and technology satellite of private biotechnology company Rocket Pi

**Wikidata**: [Q115726816](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q115726816)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/huoju-1-01

## Summary  
Huoju 1-01 is a research and technology demonstration satellite developed and operated by the Chinese private biotechnology company Rocket Pi. Launched on December 9, 2022, aboard a Jielong-3 rocket from the Yellow Sea, it serves to validate new technologies in space while supporting scientific objectives. The satellite weighs approximately 12.798 kilograms and operates in a Sun-synchronous orbit.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on **December 9, 2022**, at **06:35 UTC** from the **Yellow Sea** using a **Jielong-3** launch vehicle.  
- Operated and manufactured by **Rocket Pi**, a private biotechnology company based in the **People’s Republic of China**.  
- Weighs **12.798 kg** at launch (launch weight).  
- Official designations: **Huoju 1-01**, **Huoju-1**, **Torch-1**; **COSPAR ID**: **2022-167Q**.  
- Classified as both a **research satellite** and a **technology demonstration spacecraft**.  
- Deployed into a **Sun-synchronous orbit**.  
- Part of a multi-satellite payload mission involving 14 satellites launched together.  
- Registered under **Wikidata** with SCN number **54751**.

## FAQs  

### Q: What is Huoju 1-01 used for?  
A: Huoju 1-01 is a dual-purpose satellite used for scientific research and testing new space technologies. It supports Rocket Pi’s broader goals in advancing biotech-related applications in space.

### Q: Who built and operates Huoju 1-01?  
A: The satellite was both built and is operated by **Rocket Pi**, a private Chinese company focused on biotechnology and aerospace innovation.

### Q: When and where was Huoju 1-01 launched?  
A: It was launched on **December 9, 2022**, at **06:35 UTC** from **Launch Point 5** in the **Yellow Sea**, part of the **JL-3 launch zone**.

## Why It Matters  
Huoju 1-01 represents a milestone in China’s growing commercial space sector, particularly among private ventures like Rocket Pi. As a technology demonstration satellite, it plays a key role in validating experimental capabilities that may later be applied to more advanced missions. Its deployment via the Jielong-3 rocket also highlights the increasing accessibility of domestic small-satellite launch services. In the context of biotechnology, Huoju 1-01 could help bridge space-based research with terrestrial applications, potentially contributing to advancements in life sciences and environmental monitoring. The mission underscores China’s expanding role in democratizing access to space through cost-effective, responsive launch platforms and commercially driven satellite development.

## Notable For  
- One of the first satellites developed by **Rocket Pi**, marking the company’s entry into operational space systems.  
- Demonstrates integration of **biotechnology-focused payloads** with traditional aerospace engineering.  
- Launched as part of a **record-setting 14-satellite mission** on China’s mobile sea-based **Jielong-3** rocket.  
- Lightweight design (**<13 kg**) optimized for secondary payload missions on small launch vehicles.  
- Represents a shift toward **privately funded and operated satellites** in China’s national space program ecosystem.

## Body  

### Mission Overview  
Huoju 1-01 was launched as part of a larger mission involving 14 satellites, all deployed via the **Jielong-3 (SD-3)** solid-fuel rocket. The launch occurred on **December 9, 2022**, at **06:35 UTC**, from a floating platform located in the **Yellow Sea**, specifically identified as **Launch Point 5** within the **Huang Hai JL-3 launch zone**.

The primary purpose of Huoju 1-01 includes conducting **scientific research** and demonstrating **new technological capabilities** relevant to future missions. While specific payload details remain limited, its classification as a **technology demonstration spacecraft** suggests it may test subsystems such as communications, attitude control, or miniaturized sensors.

### Technical Specifications  
- **Mass**: 12.798 kg (launch weight)  
- **Orbit Type**: Sun-synchronous orbit  
- **Designation Aliases**: Huoju-1, Torch-1  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2022-167Q  
- **SCN Number**: 54751  

These parameters indicate a compact, lightweight satellite suitable for rideshare missions and rapid deployment scenarios typical of small-scale commercial projects.

### Operator and Manufacturer  
Both the **manufacturer** and **operator** of Huoju 1-01 are listed as **Rocket Pi**, a private Chinese company specializing in biotechnology applications in space. This aligns with the firm’s strategic focus on integrating biological research with aerospace technology.

### Launch Vehicle and Platform  
The satellite was launched aboard the **Jielong-3 (SD-3)**, a **four-stage solid-propellant rocket** developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT). The use of a **sea-based mobile launcher** reflects a trend in China toward flexible, low-cost access to orbit for smaller payloads.

### Classification and Purpose  
Huoju 1-01 is categorized as both a **research satellite** and a **technology demonstration spacecraft**, indicating dual utility:
- Conducting scientific experiments in orbit
- Testing emerging technologies before full-scale implementation

This hybrid approach allows Rocket Pi to gather performance data while advancing their long-term R&D roadmap.

## References

1. [Source](https://spacenews.com/china-launches-14-satellites-with-new-solid-rocket-from-mobile-sea-platform/)
2. [Source](https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/byF-lGiFbAUfJuMM3AG1lA)
3. Jonathan's Space Report
4. [Source](https://www.planet4589.org/space/gcat/data/tables/lp.html)