Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co., Ltd.

Jilin-1 Satellite: Spectacular Moments of the Guangzhou Marathon from Space

Overview of the Jilin-1 Satellite


"Jilin-1" is a commercial remote sensing satellite system independently developed by China, designed by the Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. 


Since the first batch of satellites was successfully launched on October 7, 2015, the "Jilin-1" family has continuously grown, forming a network operation pattern with multiple satellites. These satellites are mainly used to obtain high-resolution remote sensing imagery, serving various fields such as land resource surveys, agricultural monitoring, environmental protection, and urban planning.


Compared with traditional remote sensing satellites, the size and weight of the Jilin-1 satellites have been greatly reduced, with each satellite weighing only about 200 kilograms. However, they are equipped with advanced optical remote sensing equipment, featuring a panchromatic resolution of 0.2 meters. This means they can clearly capture objects on the ground as small as 20 centimeters from an altitude of 600 kilometers. Such high resolution positions "Jilin-1" at the forefront of the civilian remote sensing field.


Jilin-1 Satellite Records the Pulse of the City


The Guangzhou Marathon was held as scheduled on December 8. The landmark buildings of the city, such as the Canton Tower and Zhujiang New Town, served as the backdrop for the event. The Jilin-1 satellite, passing over Guangzhou while in orbit, captured the grandeur of the event. From the satellite imagery, we can clearly see the winding race track, dense crowds, and the bustling cityscape. These images not only showcase Guangzhou's urban charm but also record the passion and vitality of the marathon.


The image data from the Jilin-1 satellite is widely used in civilian fields. In urban planning, decision-makers can use high-resolution imagery for refined management; in agricultural monitoring, farmers can understand crop growth conditions through remote sensing data to optimize planting schemes; in environmental protection, environmental departments can timely identify pollution sources and take effective measures. Additionally, for organizers of large-scale events, satellite imagery provides an overarching perspective, aiding in event planning and security assurance.


The success of the Jilin-1 satellite is inseparable from the continuous innovation in China's aerospace technology. During the development of the satellite, the research team overcame multiple technical challenges, achieving a combination of high resolution and miniaturization. 


This technological breakthrough not only reduced the costs of satellite manufacturing and launching but also accelerated the development of the commercial remote sensing industry. Currently, Changguang Satellite Technology Co., Ltd. has achieved mass production of satellites, providing high-quality remote sensing data services to global users.


Looking down at the layout of Earth's cities, the textures of nature, and human activities from space exhibits a unique aesthetic. The scenes of the Guangzhou Marathon captured by the Jilin-1 satellite are not just exquisite images but also a fusion of technology and humanity. Through these images, we can view the relationship between humans and cities, and humans and nature from a new perspective, inspiring love and cherishment for our Earthly home.


With its excellent performance, the Jilin-1 satellite recorded the exciting moments of the Guangzhou Marathon, demonstrating China's strength in the field of remote sensing technology. This small satellite has built a bridge between space and Earth, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of cities and the vitality of humanity from a higher perspective.