China has launched a second weather satellite to help improve forecasts for this August's Beijing Olympics. The 2,295-kg satellite Fengyun-3 will provide mid-range forecasts over 10 to 15 days.

According to the Xinhua news agency China is worried about climatic conditions having a major impact on Beijing's attempts to rid the skies of pollution for the Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has told China that some endurance events might have to be shifted if the air quality is not good enough.

Rain might ruin the opening ceremony at the roof-less Bird's Nest National Stadium on August 8. Attempts to counter the threat by weather manipulation are also reliant on accurate forecasts. Beijing authorities have claimed some success in stopping rain over limited areas by firing chemicals into clouds.