Rainforest-monitoring satellite replaced after failed launch

By on January 3, 2014
Amazon canopy (Credit: Fabrice Marr, Creative Commons)


Following the failed launch of an environmental monitoring satellite by Brazil and China, the two countries have announced efforts to launch a replacement as early as next year, according to Space Daily.

Brazilian Communications Minister Paulo Bernardo revealed that the second satellite had already been built and planned for a 2015 launch, though recent events may prompt a launch in 2014.

Launched Dec. 9, the CBERS-3 satellite failed to enter orbit when a rocket malfunctioned during its flight from China’s Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. Brazil intended to use the satellite to monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest.

Brazil and China started the CBERS partnership in 1988, and have launched satellites in 1999, 2003 and 2007.

Image: Amazon canopy (Credit: Fabrice Marr, Creative Commons)

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