Space & Earth Science
NORAD ID: 37820
Int'l Code: 2011-053A
Perigee: 339.7 km
Apogee: 346.2 km
Inclination: 42.8 °
Period: 91.2 minutes
Semi major axis: 6713 km
Launch date: September 29, 2011
Source: People's Republic of China (PRC)
Comments: TIANGONG 1 is the first Chinese space laboratory module launched on a critical test flight to demonstrate the vital docking technology required for a future space station. The Tiangong 1 space lab will serve as a space station module prototype for China, which is the third country (after Russia and the United States) to develop the capability to launch astronauts into space and return them safely to Earth. Tiangong 1 measures 34.1 feet (10.4 m) long and has a maximum diameter of 11 feet (3.4 m). The spacecraft features two modules: a resource module with fuel tanks and solar panels for power; and an experiment module with an effective volume of 530 cubic feet (15 cubic meters). China says that's enough volume for three astronauts to live and work. According to Chinese media, the experimentation and living section includes sleeping and exercise facilities. Tiangong means heavenly palace in English.
Two Line Element Set (TLE):
1 37820U 11053A 13145.44254953 .00067376 00000-0 38205-3 0 8865
2 37820 042.7763 138.6535 0004836 253.1551 237.5633 15.78120987 95051
Source: AFSPC
NASA's NSSDC Master Catalog entry for TIANGONG 1
