Experimental
NORAD ID: 4382
Int'l Code: 1970-034A
Perigee: 437.0 km
Apogee: 2,057.3 km
Inclination: 68.4 °
Period: 110.3 minutes
Semi major axis: 7618 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 14212.07107419 .00000749 00000-0 12309-3 0 6827
2 04382 068.4237 195.3264 1063426 255.5739 092.5171 13.05663413 77884
Source: AFSPC
NASA's NSSDC Master Catalog entry for DFH-1
