COMPASS G2

COMPASS G2 is an active satellite operated by China, launched on 2009-04-14 from Xichang, China. After 17 years in orbit, it continues to be tracked by global surveillance networks. It orbits in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) at altitudes between 36,141 km and 38,822 km with an inclination of 11.4°. It travels at approximately 10,854 km/h (3.01 km/s), completing one full orbit every 25.4 hours — that’s roughly 0.95 orbits per day. It is part of the Beidou constellation group. At geostationary altitude, there is no meaningful atmospheric drag — this object will remain in orbit indefinitely unless actively deorbited. Orbital Radar tracks COMPASS G2 in real time using the latest two-line element set (TLE) data, providing live position, altitude, speed and orbital path updated continuously.

COMPASS G2 occupies geostationary orbit at approximately 35,786 km above the equator, where its orbital period matches the Earth’s 24-hour rotation. From the ground, it appears to hover over a fixed point — ideal for broadcast television, weather monitoring and wideband communications. With an inclination of 11.4°, it traces a small figure-of-eight pattern relative to the equator rather than remaining perfectly stationary, which can indicate aging stationkeeping fuel or a deliberate inclined-orbit strategy. China operates approximately 1,219 active satellites in total.