China launches latest mapping satellite of Tianhui-1 series

China today successfully sent its third mapping satellite of the Tianhui-1 series into orbit which will enhance the country's ability to carry out scientific research, mapping and disaster relief.

Tianhui-1C mapping satellite was launched from the Jiuquan launching base located in the country's northwestern Gansu province.

Tianhui-1C was aboard a Long March 2D carrier rocket, the 215th launch of the Long March series rockets, said the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp (CASTC), China's primary launch vehicle and satellite contractor.

The satellite was developed and produced under the auspices of CASTC and is the third satellite in the Tianhui-1 series.
 
It will be used for scientific experiments, land resource surveys, mapping, crop yield estimation and disaster relief.

The first Tianhui 1 mapping satellite was launched in August 2010.