Abstract: GF-7 satellite is the first 1∶10000 scale stereoscopic surveying and mapping satellite independently developed in China, and an important part of the national high resolution earth observation system. The satellite is based on the active and passive combined surveying and mapping system of “two-line array surveying and mapping + laser altimetry” and forms a series of key technologies and innovation points, such as highprecision internal/external element stability design, highprecision attitude stability control, the first X-band adaptive high-rate data transmission system, and onboard intelligent satellite management system. The capability of large scale stereoscopic mapping with little or no control points was realized. The system design of the satellite was described, and the technical innovation points were summarized such as observation system, high-precision load, attitude control, digital data transmission, intelligent satellite service, etc. The preliminary evaluation was carried out through the test results of satellites in orbit, and the satellites can meet the requirements of the 1∶10000 surveying and mapping mission.

Key words: GF-7 satellite；surveying and mapping；system design；technical characteristics, large scale