MISSION NAME
Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM)
Status
Success
DATE
22 JUN 2024
LAUNCH PROVIDER
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Launch Pad
Launch Complex 3 (LC-3/LA-1)
Description
The Space Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) is a French/Chinese planned small X-ray telescope satellite under development by China National Space Administration (CNSA) and the Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES). SVOM will study the explosions of massive stars by analysing the resulting gamma-ray bursts. The lightweight X-ray mirror for SVOM weighs just 1 kg (2.2 lb). SVOM will add new capabilities to the work of finding gamma-ray bursts currently being done by the multinational satellite Swift. Its anti-solar pointing strategy makes the Earth cross the field of view of its payload every orbit.
Long March 2C
Rocket Description
The Long March 2C is a family of expendable launch vehicles made and operated by China. It is a two stage launch vehicle with storable propellants, consisting of Nitrogen Tetroxide and Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine.