The reusable spacecraft landed on May 8 at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, concluding a 276-day mission in Earth’s orbit.
An artist’s impression of China’s mysterious spacecraft operating in orbit (Photo: Getty Images).
According to Space, the unnamed spacecraft of the China National Space Administration successfully landed on May 8 at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, located in northwestern China.
It is known that this is a reusable spacecraft, which the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation considers a significant breakthrough in technology research. This successful mission is expected to provide more convenient and cost-effective methods for peaceful access to space.
In addition to the above information, China did not disclose any detailed information about the mission. Furthermore, there were no images or footage related to the launch or landing of the spacecraft revealed.
Previously, the vehicle was launched on August 4, 2022, also at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The spacecraft completed a 276-day mission in Earth’s orbit.
Some experts suggest that China’s spacecraft bears similarities to the US X-37B reconnaissance aircraft. (Photo: AP).
On October 31, Earth-based observatories detected the spacecraft releasing something into orbit. Some observations suggest this could be a satellite or a service module.
Western experts believe this vehicle closely resembles the US Space Force’s X-37B, which is approximately 8.8 meters long and resembles a smaller version of NASA’s space shuttle.
This is also a mysterious flying device designed to carry out secret missions, the full purpose of which is not fully known.
To date, the X-37B has completed six missions in Earth’s orbit, with the longest mission lasting 909 days.
