Experimental
NORAD ID: 4382
Int'l Code: 1970-034A
Perigee: 435.2 km
Apogee: 2,039.5 km
Inclination: 68.4 °
Period: 110.2 minutes
Semi major axis: 7615 km
Launch date: April 24, 1970
Source: People's Republic of China (PRC)
Comments: 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.
Two Line Element Set (TLE):
1 04382U 70034A 15059.21295120 .00000519 00000-0 91927-4 0 9990
2 04382 068.4232 128.3708 1053336 066.8472 303.9971 13.06345472105583
Source: AFSPC
NASA's NSSDC Master Catalog entry for DFH-1
