In a significant advancement for ocean observation and environmental monitoring, China has launched the Haiyang-2E (HY-2E) marine satellite into orbit. This satellite was transported into space by a Long March 4B rocket, which took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 7:46 a.m. Beijing time on Thursday. This mission marks the 654th successful launch of the Long March rocket series.
The HY-2E satellite, developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), joins the Haiyang-2 series, China’s pioneering satellite network dedicated to monitoring the marine dynamic environment. It will replace the HY-2B satellite, operational since its launch in 2018, and will work in conjunction with the existing HY-2C and HY-2D satellites. This constellation is designed to offer continuous data for marine observation and forecasting services, enhancing the country’s ability to monitor and predict oceanic conditions.
Equipped with four advanced microwave remote sensing instruments, the HY-2E satellite is capable of collecting detailed information about sea surface conditions. It will specifically monitor sea surface height, wave height, wind fields, and sea surface temperature. These capabilities are expected to generate valuable data for marine weather forecasting, climate research, and studies on phenomena such as El Niño, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of ocean-related observations.
Over the past decade, the Haiyang-2 satellite program has significantly contributed to disaster prevention, maritime safety, and scientific research. The data from these satellites have been crucial in tracking typhoons, supporting tsunami early warning systems, and enhancing global numerical weather prediction models. Additionally, their observations have supported marine resource management and national maritime security efforts.
Beyond weather and climate applications, the Haiyang-2 satellite series offers practical benefits for the fishing and shipping industries. Data on ocean currents, wind, and waves help identify productive fishing grounds, enabling vessels to operate more efficiently and reduce costs. Since the launch of HY-2B, the satellites have also been equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS), which facilitates the continuous tracking of vessel positions, speeds, and identification details, thereby improving navigation safety across busy maritime routes.