FSW-3 (SJ 8 probably similar) [CAST]
Official name SJ-8
Alternative name SJ-8
Cospar ID 2006-035A
Norad ID 29385
Launch date 2006-09-09
Launch site JSC
Launch vehicle CZ-2C (3)
Country/Organization China
Type application Micro-gravity
RCS size LARGE
Decay date 2006-11-01
Shape Trunc Cone
Mass (kg) 2350
Height (m) 1.6
Width (m) 2.2
Depth (m) 2.2
Span (m^2) 2.2
Lifetime 24 - 27 days ?
Contractors CAST
Propulsion FG-23A retro motor ?
Power Batteries

SJ 8 (Shijian 8) is a recoverable satellite based on the FSW type reentry vehicle, which is used to expose 215 kilograms of seeds of plants and fungus to the space environment. It was recovered after several weeks.

Once the space-bred seeds are recovered, the Ministry of Agriculture organized research institutions to develop new seeds featuring high yield, good quality and high efficiency.

An improved mission of this type, SJ 10 is currently planned for 2015 after experiencing several delays.

Satellite COSPAR Date LS Launch Vehicle Remarks
SJ-8 2006-035A 2006-09-09 JSC CZ-2C (3)