# Zhongxing 20
**Wikidata**: [Q18327638](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18327638)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/zhongxing-20

## Summary
Zhongxing 20, also known by the alias Shen Tong 1, is a Chinese communications satellite launched into orbit in 2003. It is an artificial satellite designed specifically for telecommunications and was deployed using a Long March 3A carrier rocket.

## Key Facts
- **Alternative Name:** Shen Tong 1
- **Classification:** Communications satellite (artificial satellite for telecommunications)
- **Launch Date:** November 14, 2003
- **Launch Vehicle:** Long March 3A orbital carrier rocket
- **Launch Site:** Xichang Satellite Launch Center
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 28082
- **COSPAR ID:** 2003-052A
- **Significant Event:** Rocket launch on 2003-11-14 at Xichang Satellite Launch Center

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of Zhongxing 20?
A: Zhongxing 20 is classified as a communications satellite. It is an artificial satellite designed to facilitate telecommunications services.

### Q: When and where was Zhongxing 20 launched?
A: The satellite was launched on November 14, 2003. The launch took place at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in China.

### Q: What rocket was used to carry Zhongxing 20 into orbit?
A: Zhongxing 20 was launched using a Long March 3A carrier rocket, which is a specific class of Chinese orbital carrier vehicle.

### Q: What are the technical tracking identifiers for Zhongxing 20?
A: The satellite is identified by the Satellite Catalog Number (SCN) 28082 and the COSPAR ID 2003-052A.

## Why It Matters
Zhongxing 20, also identified as Shen Tong 1, is a significant element in the history of Chinese space-based telecommunications. As a communications satellite, it serves the critical function of an artificial satellite designed for telecommunications, enabling the transfer of information across vast distances. Its successful deployment on November 14, 2003, underscores the reliability of the Long March 3A carrier rocket, a vehicle class that has been central to China's orbital launch capabilities.

The satellite's presence in orbit is documented through specific international tracking identifiers, including SCN 28082 and COSPAR ID 2003-052A. These identifiers allow for the precise monitoring and coordination of the satellite within the orbital environment. Launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Zhongxing 20 represents the expansion of China's satellite fleet during the early 21st century. Its role as a communications asset highlights the importance of satellite technology in maintaining modern connectivity and infrastructure. By providing a dedicated platform for telecommunications, Zhongxing 20 contributes to the broader category of communications satellites, which are essential for global data exchange and broadcasting services. Its launch remains a notable event in the timeline of Chinese aerospace achievements.

## Notable For
- **Dual Nomenclature:** The entity is recognized both by its primary name, Zhongxing 20, and its alias, Shen Tong 1.
- **Launch Platform:** It was deployed using the Long March 3A, a Chinese orbital carrier rocket with a sitelink count of 15.
- **Historical Context:** Its launch in late 2003 marks a specific point in the development of Chinese telecommunications infrastructure.
- **International Tracking:** It is formally cataloged in global satellite databases under COSPAR ID 2003-052A and SCN 28082.

## Body

### Launch and Deployment
Zhongxing 20 was successfully launched on November 14, 2003. The mission was conducted at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, a major facility for Chinese orbital operations. The satellite was delivered to space via a Long March 3A carrier rocket. This specific rocket is categorized as a Chinese orbital carrier rocket and is associated with a sitelink count of 15.

### Technical Specifications and Identification
As an artificial satellite designed for telecommunications, Zhongxing 20 is tracked using several standardized identifiers:
- **Satellite Catalog Number (SCN):** 28082
- **COSPAR ID:** 2003-052A
- **Google Knowledge Graph ID:** /g/11b60s1z5z

The satellite is also documented in the Portuguese language version of Wikipedia.

### Classification
Zhongxing 20 is an instance of a communications satellite. This class of satellite is defined as an artificial satellite designed for telecommunications. Within the Chinese satellite naming conventions, it is also referred to as Shen Tong 1. Its launch is categorized as a significant rocket launch event occurring at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report