China names first sea wind, wave detection satellite MAZU, set for 2027 launch

China’s first satellite designed to detect sea winds and waves has been officially named MAZU at a forum. (Photo/ Screenshot)

(ECNS) -- China's first satellite designed to detect sea winds and waves has been officially named MAZU, officials announced Sunday at the 10th World Mazu Culture Forum in Fujian province. The satellite is scheduled for launch in 2027.

The satellite will provide technical support for real-time monitoring of ocean wind and wave conditions, marine and weather forecasting, ocean resource development, and disaster prevention and mitigation at sea. It is part of China's national early warning initiative MAZU, unveiled in July.

Lin Mingsen, former director of the National Satellite Ocean Application Service under the Ministry of Natural Resources, said that “marine satellites, with their high resolution, speed, wide coverage, and comprehensive data advantages, can play a vital role in ocean disaster prevention and mitigation."

MAZU” stands for "Multi-hazard", "Alert", "Zero-gap", and "Universal", coinciding with the name of an ancient Chinese sea goddess worshipped in southeastern China's coastal areas for her death while rescuing people from a shipwreck in the 10th century.

The core MAZU spirit lies in “virtue, kindness, and great love,” which in the maritime context is expressed through “sea rescue,” Lin added.

（By Zhang Jiahao）