China is to launch its second geosynchronous meteorological satellite on a "Long March 3" launch vehicle, from Xichang Satellite Launch Centre at the end of this year. The new geosynchronous meteorological satellite, Fengyun-2E (FY-2E), has passed through the examination and approval of Chinese experts after its assembly. The advanced remote sensing and observation satellite will study the Earth's atmosphere, and will play an important role in preventing and reducing weather-related disasters and monitoring the environment on Earth. China's current geosynchronous meteorological satellite in orbit is the Fengyun-2C (FY-2C), launched in October, 2004. The new satellite will alternate as a backup for the FY-2C. If necessary, both satellites will carry out simultaneous observations to inspect possible disaster-causing weather.
