# Shijian-13
**Wikidata**: [Q20053299](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q20053299)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/shijian-13-q20053299

## Summary
Shijian-13 (also known as ChinaSat-16) is a Chinese communications satellite launched on April 12, 2017, by the Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center. It is part of the Shijian series and operates in geostationary orbit, providing telecommunications services.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Communications satellite
- **Launch Date**: April 12, 2017
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 3B
- **Launch Site**: Xichang Satellite Launch Center
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit
- **Series**: Shijian (part of the Shijian series)
- **Alternate Names**: Shijian 13, SJ-13, Shi Jian 13, ChinaSat-16, 2017-018A
- **COSPAR ID**: 2017-018A
- **SCN (Spacecraft Catalog Number)**: 42662

## FAQs
### Q: What type of satellite is Shijian-13?
A: Shijian-13 is a communications satellite designed for telecommunications, part of China's Shijian series.

### Q: When was Shijian-13 launched?
A: It was launched on April 12, 2017, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3B rocket.

### Q: What orbit does Shijian-13 operate in?
A: Shijian-13 operates in geostationary orbit, providing telecommunications services.

### Q: What is the significance of the Shijian series?
A: The Shijian series is a family of Chinese satellites used for technology testing, communications, and other purposes, with Shijian-13 being one of its members.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of Shijian-13?
A: The COSPAR ID for Shijian-13 is 2017-018A.

## Why It Matters
Shijian-13 plays a crucial role in China's space infrastructure by providing telecommunications services from geostationary orbit. As part of the Shijian series, it contributes to the country's advancements in satellite technology and communications. The satellite's successful deployment demonstrates China's growing capabilities in space-based telecommunications, supporting both civilian and potential military applications. Its operation in geostationary orbit ensures continuous coverage for users in the region. The launch and operation of Shijian-13 reflect China's strategic investments in space infrastructure, enhancing its position in the global satellite communications market.

## Notable For
- **First in Series**: One of the first satellites in the Shijian series to be launched in 2017.
- **Geostationary Operation**: Provides stable telecommunications services from a fixed position in geostationary orbit.
- **Technological Testing**: Likely includes experimental payloads for advancing satellite communications technology.
- **Chinese Space Program**: Contributes to China's growing fleet of communications satellites, supporting national and regional needs.
- **Long March 3B Launch**: Successfully deployed using China's reliable Long March 3B rocket, ensuring a stable and controlled orbital insertion.

## Body
### Overview
Shijian-13 is a communications satellite developed and operated by China. It was launched on April 12, 2017, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 3B rocket. The satellite is part of the Shijian series, which includes satellites used for technology testing, communications, and other purposes.

### Technical Specifications
- **Orbit**: Geostationary orbit, providing continuous coverage over a specific region.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Long March 3B, a Chinese orbital carrier rocket known for its reliability.
- **Alternate Names**: The satellite is also referred to as ChinaSat-16 and has the COSPAR ID 2017-018A.
- **SCN (Spacecraft Catalog Number)**: 42662, used for tracking and identification in space surveillance systems.

### Significance
Shijian-13 is significant for its role in China's space infrastructure, providing telecommunications services from geostationary orbit. The satellite's operation contributes to the country's advancements in satellite technology and communications, supporting both civilian and potential military applications. Its successful deployment reflects China's strategic investments in space infrastructure, enhancing its position in the global satellite communications market.

### Historical Context
The Shijian series is a family of Chinese satellites used for technology testing, communications, and other purposes. Shijian-13 is one of the satellites in this series, launched in 2017. The satellite's operation in geostationary orbit ensures continuous coverage for users in the region, supporting China's growing space capabilities. The launch and operation of Shijian-13 demonstrate China's commitment to advancing satellite technology and communications.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report