An ocean-observing satellite jointly developed by France and China has been launched. It's designed to allow scientists their first-ever ability to study ocean surface winds and waves simultaneously from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China's northwest.

Sino-French ocean-observing satellite launched

The project took 13 years to complete. The Chinese side is responsible for providing the satellite itself, as well as the rocket to launch the satellite. Chinese wind observation technology is also involved. The French side is responsible for providing wave observations. Both will share the satellite data together.

Undated photo of Chinese and French satellite research teams working together on a joint satellite project. [Photo: China Plus]

"The satellite will conduct 24-hour observations of global wave activity, including wave heights, as well as ocean surface winds," said Zhao Jian, a senior official with China's National Space Agency.

Undated group photo of Chinese and French satellite research teams. [Photo: China Plus]

The new satellite is designed to work in-concert with the previously-launched "Ocean-1" and "Ocean-2" satellites. The data gathered by all three satellites will be put together, which Chinese authorities say will significantly improve Chinese ocean observations.