China has successfully deployed the Haiyang-2E (HY-2E) satellite into orbit, enhancing its capabilities in oceanic and environmental surveillance. The satellite was launched aboard 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 represents the 654th launch within the extensive Long March rocket series. The HY-2E satellite, developed by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), is the latest in the Haiyang-2 series, marking the country’s first dedicated satellite network for monitoring marine dynamics.
The HY-2E is set to replace the HY-2B satellite, which was launched in 2018, while also working in tandem with the existing HY-2C and HY-2D satellites. This constellation aims to provide ongoing data to enhance marine observation and forecasting services. Equipped with four sophisticated microwave remote sensing instruments, the HY-2E will gather comprehensive data on sea surface conditions, including sea surface height, wave height, wind fields, and sea surface temperature. This information will be instrumental in improving marine weather forecasting, conducting climate studies, and examining phenomena such as El Niño, thereby increasing the accuracy and dependability of oceanic observations.
Over the past ten years, the Haiyang-2 satellite program has been pivotal in disaster prevention, maritime safety, and scientific research. The satellites have delivered essential data for tracking typhoons, bolstering tsunami early warning systems, and refining global numerical weather prediction models. Their contributions have also supported marine resource management and national maritime security initiatives.
In addition to its weather and climate functions, the Haiyang-2 satellite series offers tangible benefits to the fishing and shipping industries. Data on ocean currents, wind, and waves assist in pinpointing productive fishing areas, enabling vessels to operate more efficiently and economically. With the HY-2B launch, the satellites were equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS), facilitating the continuous tracking of vessel positions, speeds, and identification details, thus enhancing navigational safety on busy sea routes.
