Low-cost, low-orbit business satellite

SPACEOK, a Jiading-based private company engaged in commercial aerospace, plans to launch a low-orbit communication satellite “Jiading No.1” later this year, which is also the first time in China that a private company launches a satellite.

The 50-kilogram satellite will contract its body into the size of half a refrigerator during the launch.

“Jiading No. 1” is a cornerstone aerospace product that represents China’s private aerospace companies’ autonomous intellectual properties,” said Jia Qilong, chief marketing officer of SpaceOK.

Shanghai Aerospace Electronics Company that once took part in the producing of China’s first satellite in 1970 also participates in the “Jiading No. 1” project this time.

Wang Shiyong, director of SAEC Inspection and Examination Department, said the company has a 6,000-square-meter laboratory that can simulate the mechanics, temperature, vacuum and electromagnetic compatibility conditions during launch.

In recent years, nano-satellites have been applied in agricultural observation, global positioning, weather forecasts and atmosphere monitoring at a much lower cost.

SpaceOK will launch a dozen more low-earth-orbit satellites following Jiading No. 1 to form a low-earth-orbit satellite network.

Meanwhile, SAEC is to explore the potential of its inspection and examination services, focusing on Jiading’s automobile and the integrated circuit industry, and build precision laboratories for companies.