L-SAR 01A

L-SAR 01A (Ludi Tance-1 01A) is a Chinese satellite equipped with a synthetic aperture radar (SAR). It operates in differential interferometry in L-band, within a group of two satellites operating in quasi-heliosynchronous orbit. Weighing 3.2 tons, they have an antenna of 32 m², which makes this family of SAR satellites the largest ever launched by China to date. The L-band observation allows a better detail of natural and wooded areas, whereas a C-band SAR, more commonly used, allows for better resolution in urban areas. Ludi Tance satellites are mainly used to assess the evolution of the terrain, for public works (earthworks, effect of tunnel digging on the ground), landslide prevention, or earthquake damage assessment.