Tianlian II-03 Satellite Overview

Tianlian II-03 is a Chinese geostationary data relay satellite operated by the China Satellite Launch and Tracking Control General (CLTC) as part of the Tianlian (Space Relay) network. It was launched on July 13, 2022, aboard a Long March 3B (CZ-3B) rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

Built by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) on an advanced DFH-4 series platform, Tianlian II-03 is part of the second-generation Tianlian relay satellite system. Its primary mission is to provide real-time data relay, telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) services between ground stations and spacecraft in orbit.

The satellite plays a critical role in supporting China’s space infrastructure, including:

• The Tiangong space station
• Crewed Shenzhou missions
• Cargo spacecraft and other satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO)

Operating in geostationary orbit (GEO), Tianlian II-03 enables continuous communication coverage, significantly improving mission efficiency and reducing reliance on ground station visibility windows.

As part of the growing Tianlian constellation, Tianlian II-03 enhances China’s space-based communication relay network, ensuring reliable, high-speed data transmission for both human spaceflight and satellite operations.