May 10, the “Tiantuo-1″ tiny satellite was launched at the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.”Tiantuo-1″ was developed by the National Defense Science and independent design, development of small satellites, whose main task is to carry out the spaceborne AIS (Automatic Identification System) receiver, optical imaging, space environmental exploration, on-orbit scientific experiments, for shenzhou-9 crew emergency rescue and to provide information services and technical support to ensure the safety of the lives of the astronauts.
Spacecraft emergency search and rescue emergency measures are necessary for the manned space launch. 30 minutes before the rocket launch to take-off, within 2-3 minutes after the event of unforeseen emergencies, at the top of the rocket escape tower will quickly start to pull out the spacecraft from the rocket to flee danger, and then with the help of parachutes and buffer device security landing to the emergency visits to the districts.
Shenzhou-9′s emergency rescue areas include three marine regions, the most narrow-band width of 100 km, the longest span of about 4500 km. Tiantuo-1′s onboard AIS system can cover more than 3000 km in diameter, accurately locate name, position, speed, heading and other data of the vessel within the coverage of AIS system.
After the launch of Shenzhou-9, the National Defense Science and the scientific research staff take turns on duty 24 hours a day and timely investigation and received AIS data transmitted to the authorities, providing a real-time and effective service and technical support.
