# Xuntian

> planned Chinese space telescope

**Wikidata**: [Q26270214](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q26270214)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xuntian)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/xuntian

## Summary
Xuntian is a planned Chinese space telescope, also known as the Chinese Survey Space Telescope (CSST). It is designed to be a large optical telescope that will operate in orbit, conducting astronomical surveys and observations from space.

## Key Facts
- Xuntian is a planned Chinese space telescope with a 2-meter diameter optical telescope
- It is scheduled for launch in December 2023 from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center
- The telescope will be operated by the China National Space Administration
- It will be launched using a Long March 5B rocket
- Xuntian has multiple aliases including XT, CSST, and 巡天望远镜
- The telescope is classified as both a space telescope and an optical telescope
- It is considered a proposed entity as of the latest available information

### Q: What is Xuntian?
A: Xuntian is a planned Chinese space telescope, also known as the Chinese Survey Space Telescope (CSST), designed to conduct astronomical surveys and observations from orbit.

### Q: When is Xuntian scheduled to launch?
A: Xuntian is scheduled for launch in December 2023 from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in China.

### Q: What type of telescope is Xuntian?
A: Xuntian is a 2-meter diameter optical telescope that will operate in space, making it a space telescope and optical telescope.

## Why It Matters
Xuntian represents China's ambitious entry into the field of space-based astronomical observation, positioning the country as a major player in space science alongside established space agencies like NASA and ESA. As a large optical space telescope, it will enable Chinese scientists to conduct independent astronomical surveys and research without relying on data from other countries' space telescopes. The telescope's planned launch in 2023 marks a significant milestone in China's space program, demonstrating their growing capabilities in space technology and scientific research. Xuntian will contribute to our understanding of the universe by providing new data on celestial objects, potentially leading to discoveries in areas such as dark matter, galaxy formation, and exoplanet research.

## Notable For
- Being China's first large-scale independently developed space telescope
- Featuring a 2-meter diameter optical telescope, making it comparable to other major space telescopes
- Planned launch aboard China's Long March 5B rocket, showcasing domestic launch capabilities
- Operating as part of China's broader space station program and space exploration initiatives
- Having multiple Chinese names and aliases, reflecting its cultural and national significance

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Xuntian features a 2-meter diameter optical telescope, making it a medium-sized space telescope by international standards. The telescope is designed for astronomical surveys and will operate in orbit around Earth, providing clear observations unobstructed by Earth's atmosphere.

### Launch and Operations
The telescope is scheduled for launch in December 2023 from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, China's primary spaceport for large payload launches. It will be launched using a Long March 5B rocket, which is part of China's heavy-lift launch vehicle family. The China National Space Administration will operate the telescope, marking it as a significant national scientific asset.

### Classification and Purpose
Xuntian is classified as both a space telescope and an optical telescope, with its primary purpose being astronomical surveys and observations. As a proposed entity, it represents China's commitment to advancing its capabilities in space-based astronomy and scientific research. The telescope's design allows it to conduct surveys of the sky, potentially contributing to discoveries in various astronomical fields.

### International Context
While Xuntian is China's independent space telescope project, it enters a field where other major space telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope and James Webb Space Telescope have already made significant contributions. However, Xuntian's unique perspective and capabilities will add valuable data to the global astronomical community's understanding of the universe.

## References

1. [Source](https://english.cas.cn/newsroom/cas_media/202205/t20220507_305162.shtml)
2. [Source](https://www.interfax.ru/world/853640)