China advanced its natural disaster monitoring capabilities with the successful launch of the Zhangheng 1-02 satellite on Saturday, a joint project with Italy designed to enhance global understanding of geological and atmospheric risks. The satellite, named after ancient Chinese seismoscope inventor Zhang Heng, was carried into orbit by a Long March-2D rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
Equipped with nine advanced payloads—including a China-Italy co-developed electric field detector—the satellite will conduct quasi-real-time monitoring of electromagnetic fields, ionospheric activity, and atmospheric changes. Scientists aim to use this data to study links between Earth's physical field fluctuations and disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, and extreme weather events.
"This mission represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and historical legacy," said Peng Wei of the China National Space Administration (CNSA). The satellite will work in tandem with its predecessor, Zhangheng 1-01, launched in 2018, to expand observation coverage and accuracy.
Francesco Longo of the Italian Space Agency highlighted the project's cross-cultural significance, noting its name—Limadou—honors Matteo Ricci, a 16th-century Jesuit priest who bridged East-West exchanges. "Space collaboration transcends borders, much like Ricci's work," Longo said, emphasizing the mission's potential to improve disaster resilience in both countries.
The launch marks China's 581st Long March rocket mission, underscoring its growing role in global space infrastructure development. With a six-year operational lifespan, Zhangheng 1-02 is expected to contribute critical data for international disaster prediction models and climate research.
