China launches microsat, nanosat

Call me paranoid (again), but I'm reminded of the reports back
in 2001 that China might be developing a nanosat parasitic ASAT.
Launching an R&D model of one together with another satellite
that could serve as a target would be a logical step in the
development of such.

It will be interesting to keep an eye on the orbital elements
of these two objects and see if they remain close together.


http://washingtontimes.com/upi-break...4205-8712r.htm

China launches two more satellites
Apr. 19 [2004] (UPI)
[EXCERPTS]

China sent two satellites into space Monday with its scientists
saying the successful launch was a breakthrough in the
development of small satellites.

The rocket carrying the satellites was launched at the Xichang
Satellite Launch Center...

The two satellites will be used for scientific experiments.

The Experiment Satellite I, weighing about 448 pounds
(204 kilograms), is China's first transmission-type small
satellite capable of stereo mapping, Xinhua said.

The other Nano-satellite I, weighing only about 55 pounds
(25 kilograms), is designed for high-tech experiments.