DFH-1 (Dong Fang Hong 1)

Launch data: Designation 04382 / 70034A Launch date 24 Apr 1970 - 13:35 UT Launch site Jiuquan, LA2A Launch vehicle CZ-1(#F01) Mission Scientific Earth orbit on: Perigee/Apogee 431/2163 km Inclination 68.4° Period 111.5 min

Spacecraft data:

Description:

• This DFH (Dong Fang Hong - Red is East) Chinese communications satellite contained a radio transmitter. It was the first Chinese experimental satellite launched by a LM-1 booster into a 441 x 2286 km orbit inclined at 68.4 deg. from a launch facility near Lop Nor. The primary satellite mission was to broadcast the song "Dong Fang Hong", paying tribute to Chairman Mao, and to announce the time. The satellite was spherically shaped with a one meter diameter. It ceased transmitting in June 1970. This was the first satellite launched by China on its own booster, making China the fifth nation to put a spacecraft into orbit using its own rocket.

External links:

• Satellite tracking (n2ya.com): Real time satellite tracking