2025-06-30 中国科学院 (CAS)
The orbit and imaging of Haishao-1 satellite. (Image by AIR)
＜関連情報＞
- https://english.cas.cn/newsroom/research_news/infotech/202506/t20250630_1046476.shtml
- https://www.cell.com/the-innovation/fulltext/S2666-6758(25)00152-3
Haishao-1衛星： 低傾斜軌道宇宙搭載合成開口レーダー Haishao-1 satellite: Low-inclination orbit spaceborne synthetic aperture radar
Xiao-Ming Li ∙ Liang Chang ∙ Jian Zhou ∙ … ∙ Ning Wang ∙ Yujia Qiu ∙ Yirong Wu
The Innovation Published:May 12, 2025
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xinn.2025.100949
Dear Editor,
The spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) has revolutionized Earth observation by providing unparalleled all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities. Unlike optical systems, SAR utilizes microwave signals to penetrate clouds and darkness, making it indispensable for monitoring dynamic Earth processes such as land deformation, vegetation cover, oceanic dynamics, and polar changes.1 Since the pioneering SEASAT mission in 1978,2 spaceborne SAR technology has evolved dramatically, with advancements in resolution, coverage, and operational versatility. Today, a new era of SAR innovation is being driven by commercial small satellites like Capella and ICEYE constellations,3 which offer sub-meter resolution, hourly revisit frequencies, and rapid response capabilities. Against this backdrop, the Haishao-1 (HS-1) satellite (meaning “sea whistle” in English), launched on December 4, 2024, carrying an X-band (9.6 GHz) SAR payload and a nightlight camera, represents a groundbreaking achievement in China’s spaceborne SAR development. As the first Chinese SAR satellite to operate in a low-inclination orbit (43°) and a very low Earth orbit (VLEO) at 350 km (see Figure 1A and the table within the figure), HS-1 combines cutting-edge technologies to deliver unprecedented monitoring capabilities for low-latitude regions and beyond. This paper highlights the technological innovations and scientific potential of HS-1, showcasing its role in advancing global Earth observation.
