Tianlian I-01

Tianlian I-01 (Simplified Chinese: 天链一号01星, Traditional Chinese: 天鏈一號01星) is the first Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) launched by People's Republic of China, and the first satellite of Tianlian I TDRS series.

The satellite
The satellite has multiple roles and will especially serve for China's manned spaceflight. Its first task could be for the Shenzhou 7 communication.

Launch
The satellite was launched successfully by the Long March 3C rocket in Xichang Satellite Launch Centre at local time 23:35 April 25, 2008. It was the 105th launch of the Long March Rocket Family.

The rocket had 3 stages, 2 roll boosters, a 55 m height; and was liquid-fueled. Its initial weight was ~343 t.

00:00 April 26, 2008, the Xi'an Satellite Control Centre received the feedback signal, which showed the satellite accurately entered its predesigned orbit.

08:25 GMT April 30, 2008, the satellite was announced to be successfully set at E. 77 degrees over the equator.