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FSW-3 Imagery Intelligence

A general reference was made in a 1989 scientific paper about the development of a second generation of recoverable satellites which would be "much larger, heavier, and more advanced than FSW-2" (Reference 609). The new spacecraft would also incorporate more sophisticated reentry lift techniques to improve landing precision and to lessen deceleration forces, which are currently as high as 20 g's for FSW capsules. No subsequent discussion of this proposed satellite has ensued.

China’s third generation of imaging satellite, the FSW-3, is expected to be a recoverable system with a one meter resolution. China’s Academy of Space Technology (CAST) engineers have also conducted design work on a tactical imagery system and associated mobile ground receiving stations. The system is based on small satellite technology, uses a charged coupled device (CCD) array, and, when operating in a 700-kilometer sun synchronous orbit, is designed to have a five meter resolution.

Sources and Resources

• 609. Lin Hua-bao and Min Gui-rong, "The Chinese Recoverable Satellite Program", Paper IAF-89-426, 40th Congress of the International Astronautical Federation, October 1989.

• CHINA'S STRATEGIC MODERNIZATION: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE UNITED STATES Mark A. Stokes [U.S. Army Strategic Studies Institute] -- September 1999
• Adapted from: Europe and Asia in Space 1993-1994, Nicholas Johnson and David Rodvold [Kaman Sciences / Air Force Phillips Laboratory]

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