# SATech-01 > Chinese technology demonstration and X-ray astronomy satellite **Wikidata**: [Q124293788](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q124293788) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/satech-01 ## Summary SATech-01 is a Chinese technology demonstration and X-ray astronomy satellite launched on July 27, 2022. It serves as a platform to test experimental technologies while also carrying scientific instruments for astronomical observations, including the Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy. ## Key Facts - **Launch Date**: July 27, 2022, at 04:12 UTC from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/130. - **Launch Vehicle**: Lijian-1 rocket (variant Y1). - **Operator/Manufacturer**: Chinese Academy of Sciences. - **Developer**: Innovation Academy for Microsatellites. - **Orbit**: Sun-synchronous orbit. - **Mass**: 621.8 kg (launch weight). - **Dimensions**: 10.578 m (width), 5.886 m (height), 1.422 m (length). - **Power Source**: Spacecraft solar array with two panels generating 717 watts. - **Service Life**: 2 years (design life). - **Scientific Instrument**: Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy. - **Aliases**: Kongjian Xinjishu Shiyan 01, XJS-01, Space Advanced Technology demonstration satellite, SY-01. ## FAQs ### Q: What was the purpose of SATech-01? A: SATech-01 was designed as a technology demonstration spacecraft to test experimental technologies while also conducting X-ray astronomy observations using the Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy. ### Q: Who launched SATech-01? A: SATech-01 was launched by the Chinese Academy of Sciences using a Lijian-1 rocket (variant Y1) from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/130 on July 27, 2022. ### Q: What scientific instrument does SATech-01 carry? A: SATech-01 carries the Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy, which is used for X-ray observations in space. ### Q: What is the significance of SATech-01's orbit? A: SATech-01 operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, which allows for consistent lighting conditions and is commonly used for Earth observation and astronomical missions. ### Q: How long was SATech-01 expected to operate? A: SATech-01 was designed with a service life of 2 years, though its actual operational duration may vary. ## Why It Matters SATech-01 represents a significant advancement in China's space technology capabilities. As a technology demonstration satellite, it serves as a platform to test and validate new experimental technologies in space. Additionally, its role in X-ray astronomy contributes to scientific research by providing data on distant space objects. The mission highlights China's growing expertise in microsatellite development and its commitment to advancing space-based scientific instruments. By successfully deploying and operating SATech-01, China demonstrates its ability to conduct complex space missions while supporting broader goals in space exploration and astronomy. ## Notable For - **First Chinese X-ray astronomy satellite of its kind**: SATech-01 is notable for its integration of X-ray observation capabilities, marking a step forward in China's space-based astronomical research. - **Technology demonstration platform**: The satellite serves as a testbed for experimental technologies, contributing to China's advancements in space engineering. - **Sun-synchronous orbit utilization**: Its deployment in a sun-synchronous orbit demonstrates China's ability to conduct precise orbital missions for scientific purposes. - **Collaborative development**: SATech-01 was developed by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites, showcasing collaboration between academic institutions and space agencies. - **Lobster Eye Imager innovation**: The satellite's use of the Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy represents a novel approach to X-ray detection in space. ## Body ### Mission Overview SATech-01 was launched on July 27, 2022, aboard a Lijian-1 rocket (variant Y1) from Jiuquan Launch Complex 43/130. The satellite was developed by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites and operated by the Chinese Academy of Sciences. It was designed to serve as a technology demonstration spacecraft while also conducting X-ray astronomy observations. ### Design and Specifications SATech-01 has a launch mass of 621.8 kg and dimensions of 10.578 meters in width, 5.886 meters in height, and 1.422 meters in length. It is powered by a spacecraft solar array consisting of two panels, generating a total of 717 watts. The satellite operates in a sun-synchronous orbit, which provides consistent observational conditions. ### Scientific Instruments The primary scientific instrument aboard SATech-01 is the Lobster Eye Imager for Astronomy. This instrument is designed for X-ray observations, contributing to astronomical research by detecting and analyzing X-rays from distant space objects. ### Significance and Impact SATech-01 is significant for its role in advancing China's space technology and scientific capabilities. As a technology demonstration satellite, it tests experimental technologies in a real space environment, supporting future space missions. Its X-ray astronomy capabilities also enhance China's contributions to astronomical research, particularly in the study of high-energy phenomena in space. ### Operational Details SATech-01 was designed with a service life of 2 years, though its actual operational duration may extend beyond this period. The satellite's successful deployment and operation demonstrate China's growing proficiency in space-based technology and scientific instrumentation. ## References 1. Space advanced technology demonstration satellite 2. [Source](https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202301/1283692.shtml) 3. Jonathan's Space Report 4. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/satech-01.htm)