Caracas, Venezuela • China has launched a second satellite built for Venezuela’s government.
The remote sensing satellite soared into orbit atop a rocket from the northwestern Chinese province of Gansu.
The launch was shown live on Venezuelan TV on Friday night. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez applauded as he watched alongside aides in Caracas, congratulating those who worked on the project.
Officials have said the satellite cost $140 million and will provide images for tasks such as mapping croplands, counter-drug efforts and monitoring floods.
The launch came more than a week ahead of Venezuela’s Oct. 7 presidential election, in which Chavez is seeking another six-year term.
The satellite is named after Venezuelan independence hero Francisco de Miranda.
Venezuela’s first satellite was named after independence leader Simon Bolivar. It was launched from China in 2008.
-
Wharton: Selfish reasons to oppose Nevada water deal
Published Jun 18, 2013 04:44:46PM -
NSA director says surveillance program foiled plot against Wall Street
Published Jun 18, 2013 04:45:22PM -
In veto-proof vote, Salt Lake City Council OK’s $8M tax increase
Published Jun 18, 2013 04:44:01PM -
Competency in question for Utah man accused of killing 77-year-old father last July
Published Jun 18, 2013 04:37:02PM
Copyright 2013 The Salt Lake Tribune. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
