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China Launched a New Astronomical Satellite Developed in Collaboration with France

China and France have launched the SVOM satellite, the culmination of over two decades of partnership. The goal of SVOM is to catch gamma-ray bursts and investigate their properties in order to better understand the evolution of the universe. The satellite is outfitted with modern instrumentation created by both countries.

China launches new astronomical satellite
Credit: CGTN

The satellite, known as the Space-based Multi-band Variable Object Monitor (SVOM), was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in southwest Sichuan Province.


The SVOM spacecraft carries four scientific instruments, two of which were developed by China and the other two by France. These instruments allow the satellite to have a large field of view and make precise observations. The primary goal of SVOM is to detect gamma-ray bursts, which are strong bursts of radiation produced by the demise of large stars or the merger of binary compact stars.


Gamma-ray bursts are regarded as one of the most intense explosive processes in the cosmos, second only to the Big Bang. Scientists think that by thoroughly analysing these bursts, they can acquire insights into fundamental questions about the universe. Wei Jianyan, the Chinese chief investigator of SVOM, remarked that the research on gamma-ray bursts will help us comprehend the evolution of the cosmos and provide light on dark energy.


Bertrand Cordier, SVOM's French chief investigator, expressed delight about the satellite's ability to observe roughly 70 gamma-ray bursts every year. He underlined that gamma-ray bursts are a tool for studying the early cosmos and can reveal important information about the origins of stars and elements on Earth, such as gold, silver, and copper.


The collaboration between China and France in developing SVOM demonstrates their collaborative efforts and skills. The adoption of China's BeiDou Satellite system has substantially increased the satellite's responsiveness, allowing it to point to fascinating astronomical targets in minutes. This significant advancement was made possible by the integration of the BeiDou System, which reduced reaction time from 20 minutes to only five minutes.


SVOM is not only a great accomplishment in space science, but also a shining example of international collaboration. The satellite is the first astronomical spacecraft created jointly by China and France, demonstrating the strength of their collaboration. Despite the hurdles provided by the COVID-19 epidemic, the two countries' teams worked relentlessly to secure the mission's success.


The launch of the SVOM spacecraft is a significant step forward in space science, paving the way for closer collaboration between China and France. It serves as a paradigm for future space collaboration, not just between the two countries, but also with the rest of the globe. The mission is expected to benefit the global community of space scientists by advancing scientific research in the subject.

 
  • China and France have launched the SVOM satellite, the result of nearly 20 years of collaboration.

  • SVOM aims to capture gamma-ray bursts and study their properties to understand the universe's evolution.

  • The satellite is equipped with advanced instruments developed by both countries.


Source: CGTN

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