Overview
Gaofen (高分, "high resolution") is a series of Chinese high-resolution Earth observation satellites launched under the China High-Resolution Earth Observation System (CHEOS) programme, approved in 2010. The series provides optical, radar, and multispectral imaging for land surveying, disaster monitoring, urban planning, agricultural assessment, and environmental protection.
Key Satellites
| Satellite | Launched | Type | Resolution | Orbit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaofen-1 | Apr 2013 | Optical | 2 m pan / 8 m multi | 645 km SSO |
| Gaofen-2 | Aug 2014 | Optical | 0.8 m pan / 3.2 m multi | 631 km SSO |
| Gaofen-3 | Aug 2016 | SAR (C-band) | 1 m | 755 km SSO |
| Gaofen-5 | May 2018 | Hyperspectral | 30 m | 705 km SSO |
| Gaofen-7 | Nov 2019 | Stereo mapping | 0.65 m | 506 km SSO |
| Gaofen-11 | Jul 2018 | Optical (military) | <0.5 m (estimated) | LEO SSO |
Significance
The Gaofen programme has made China self-sufficient in high-resolution satellite imagery, reducing dependence on foreign commercial imagery providers. The sub-metre optical and 1-metre SAR capabilities place China's Earth observation infrastructure on par with the most advanced Western systems. Gaofen data supports China's Belt and Road Initiative, disaster response, and environmental monitoring at national scale.