Introduction:
In the wake of the devastating landslide that struck Jinping Village, Muaiai Town, Junlian County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province on February 8, 2025, the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) has swiftly mobilized its resources to support rescue efforts. Demonstrating the crucial role of space technology in disaster response, CASC has leveraged its satellite capabilities to provide critical imagery and communication support to aid in the ongoing relief operations.
Immediate Response and Resource Allocation:
Upon learning of the disaster, CASC immediately activated its emergency response mechanism, coordinating its affiliated units to work in tandem with relevant government departments to facilitate rescue work. China Satellite Communications Co., Ltd. (China Satcom), a subsidiary of CASC, promptly initiated its emergency support plan, allocating premium satellite resources to both emergency management agencies and telecommunications operators. This allocation has enabled the deployment of over ten Ka-band high-throughput portable base stations to the disaster zone, ensuring reliable communication channels for rescue teams on the ground.
Satellite Imagery: A Critical Tool for Assessment and Relief:
Recognizing the importance of timely and accurate information for effective disaster response, CASC’s Resource Satellite Data and Application Center also activated its emergency response mechanism for major natural disasters. The center immediately began providing satellite imagery to support disaster relief efforts.
To achieve this, the center urgently coordinated in-orbit satellites, harmonizing satellite scheduling, telemetry, tracking, and control resources, and modifying imaging commands. Specifically, the Environment and Disaster Reduction Satellite-2A and the Gaofen-3 satellite were tasked with observing the disaster area on February 8th. Furthermore, plans were made to task multiple satellites, including Gaofen-1 02, Gaofen-1 03, Ziyuan-1 02D, Gaofen-3 02, Environment and Disaster Reduction Satellite-2 06, and Land Exploration-1B, to image the affected area from February 9th to 10th.
Data Acquisition and Dissemination:
As of the morning of February 9, 2025, CASC had successfully arranged ten satellite imaging sessions, acquiring one scene of effective post-disaster data and sharing five scenes of historical data. This crucial information has been promptly provided to national ministries and relevant units, offering a comprehensive overview of the disaster situation.
Conclusion:
CASC’s rapid response to the Sichuan landslide underscores the vital role of space technology in disaster management. By providing essential communication support and high-resolution satellite imagery, CASC is empowering rescue teams with the information they need to effectively assess the damage, coordinate relief efforts, and ultimately save lives. This event highlights the growing importance of integrating space-based assets into comprehensive disaster preparedness and response strategies. As technology advances, the ability to monitor and respond to natural disasters from space will only become more critical in mitigating their impact and protecting vulnerable populations.
References:
- IT之家. (2025, February 9). 中国航天科技集团驰援四川宜宾山体滑坡灾区：第一时间调配优质卫星资源、提供相关图像信息. Retrieved from [Insert original article URL here if available, otherwise omit]
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