Algeria announces launching new satellite from China

ALGIERS, Jan 15 (KUNA) -- Algeria announced on Thursday the launch of a new remote sensing satellite "AlSat-3A" from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China to back spatial observation and enhance the system of geospatial information and intelligence. Algerian Minister Delegate for National Defence and Chief of Staff of the People's National Army (PNA) Liet. Gen. Said Chengriha pursued the launch of the satellite, Algeria's defense ministry said in a statement.
The step came as part of developing and backing national potential in space-based observation and embodies partnership between the Algerian space agency, and China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, it added.
The launch of the satellite (AlSat 3A) was successful, and it will allow the country to receive additional data through high-resolution satellite capabilities dedicated to observation, as well as enhance the system in geospatial intelligence and geospatial information with added value like digital elevation models and mapping.
Algeria launched its first Earth observation satellite (AlSat-1) in 2002 followed by AlSat-2A and AlSat-2B in 2010 and 2016, respectively. The new satellite, which involved Algerian experts, is another significant achievement added to the country's available geospatial capabilities in this field. (end) mr.mmj.hm