Alsat-3A
Algerian high-resolution earth observation satellite
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Alsat-3A is an Algerian Earth observation satellite operated by the Algerian Space Agency, designed to capture high-resolution images of Earth's surface, resource management, and disaster response. Launched on 15 January 2026 using Long March 2C,[1] the satellite was developed through a collaboration between Algeria and China. It represents an advancement over the earlier Alsat-2 series (Alsat-2A, Alsat-2B) in terms of imaging resolution and technical capabilities.[2][3][4]
| Mission type | Earth observation |
|---|---|
| Operator | ASAL |
| COSPAR ID | 2026-009A |
| SATCAT no. | 67474 |
| Website | asal.dz |
| Mission duration | 5 years (expected) |
| Spacecraft properties | |
| Manufacturer | CAST |
| Launch mass | 500 kilograms (1,100 lb) |
| Dry mass | 500 kilograms (1,100 lb) |
| Dimensions | 2 metres (6.6 ft) length, 1 metre (3.3 ft) diameter, 4 metres (13 ft) span |
| Start of mission | |
| Launch date | 15 January 2026, 04:01:00 UTC |
| Rocket | Long March 2C |
| Launch site | Jiuquan, Launch Area 94 |
| Contractor | CASC |
| Orbital parameters | |
| Reference system | Geocentric |
| Regime | Sun-synchronous |
| Periapsis altitude | 489 kilometres (304 mi) |
| Apoapsis altitude | 627 kilometres (390 mi) |
| Inclination | 97.4 degrees |
| Epoch | 16 January 2026 |