9 Jan 2023: China launched Shijian-23 from Wenchang on a Long March 7A. SJ-23 entered geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO). Shijian satellites, described in the issue as “trial” or “pilot” spacecraft, typically have classified missions and the capabilities and mission of SJ-23 were unknown. Launch Video.
– SJ-23 was initially in an approximately 884 x 35,807km orbit inclined about 14.5° and was expected to maneuver into the geostationary belt.
– The issue notes unverified clues that SJ-23 may be a high-throughput satellite similar to SJ-13, based partly on a blurry launch-day postmark that may depict a DFH-4S bus.
– The DFH-4S bus is described as about 2,700kg with an orbital life of up to 15 years using onboard propulsion.
– SJ-23 was reportedly manufactured by SAST, while SJ-13 was a CAST product.
– SJ-23 was the first Shijian satellite launched on Long March 7A.
– Once in GEO, SJ-23 would join SJ-13, SJ-17, SJ-20 and SJ-21 as Shijian spacecraft operating in that regime.
– Chinese media described the mission as scientific experiments and technical verification.
– Initial Chinese reports incorrectly stated that Shiyan-22A and -22B launched with SJ-23. State media later corrected this and said the Shiyan spacecraft flew on a separate Long March 2D mission.
SJ-23 in geosynchronous transfer orbit.
"Postmark" showing an animation of SJ-23.
