China Secretively Emerging as a Major Space Power with Successful Space Plane Test Flight
The current developments in space exploration are propelled by international cooperation and essential support from the private space sector.
Image: Google.com
China has emerged as a major power in space and is now a significant competitor with NASA's human space programs.
Image: Google.com
China has been developing a reusable autonomous space plane called Shenlong to rival the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle.
Image: Google.com
The Chinese spaceplane, known as Chongfu Shiyong Shiyan Hangtian Qi (CSSHQ), recently concluded its second test flight after spending 276 days in orbit.
Image: Google.com
The 276-day journey of the Chinese space plane was considered a success and an important breakthrough by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua.
Image: Google.com
The spacecraft successfully executed numerous maneuvers during its flight, and it even managed to release a small satellite into orbit.
Image: Google.com
The purpose and nature of the satellite released by the Chinese spaceplane remain unknown.
Image: Google.com
The landing location of the Chinese space plane is believed to be the Lop Nur military base in Xinjiang, according to orbital tracking information and satellite pictures.
Image: Google.com
Reusable spacecraft technology is of interest to many space players, and the success of China's experiment puts them ahead in the race to develop dependable reusable spacecraft technologies.
Image: Google.com
MORE
STORIES
Image: Google.com