CHINA’S meteorological agency released the first batch of images from its newly launched Fengyun 4C satellite on Saturday, showcasing the spacecraft’s capability to deliver near-real-time monitoring from the Sun to Earth.

Launched on Dec. 27, 2025, from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province, the satellite now ranks as the most capable single geostationary meteorological satellite in orbit in terms of comprehensive observation capabilities, according to the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

Equipped with six internationally advanced payloads, the Fengyun 4C has already delivered striking imagery. The CMA noted that images from the satellite’s geostationary radiation imager feature clear textures and rich detail.

Among the key instruments is an interferometric atmospheric vertical sounder, which provides high-resolution spectral data that captures the vertical structure of the atmosphere. This data is expected to enhance Earth system numerical forecasting and improve the accuracy of weather predictions.

The satellite also carries a lightning imager, which has produced continuous observation animations accurately depicting lightning activity during severe convective storms — demonstrating its value for extreme weather monitoring and early warning systems.

In addition, a multiband ionospheric ultraviolet spectrometer imager has been conducting continuous observations of airglow phenomena over the Eastern Hemisphere. The CMA explained that this instrument can map structural changes in Earth’s ionosphere, which can affect communication, navigation, and positioning signals.

A solar extreme ultraviolet imager, working in tandem with solar X-ray and ultraviolet flux sensors, has successfully captured image sequences and radiation changes during solar flare eruptions. This capability will help expand China’s ability to track solar activity.

With 10 Fengyun weather satellites currently in orbit, China is the only country operating meteorological satellites across four near-Earth orbital types, the administration added.

(SD-Agencies)