China successfully conducted the fourth launch of its reusable experimental spacecraft, informally known as Shenlong (“Divine Dragon”). On February 7, the vehicle was placed into orbit from the Jiuquan launch site using a Long March-2F rocket. Beijing continues to maintain strict secrecy regarding the objectives and technical specifications of this project.
This is reported by Finway
The Role of Shenlong in Space Technologies
Official Chinese sources have limited themselves to stating that a “technological verification of reusable spacecraft for peaceful use of space” was conducted. At the same time, Western analysts are closely monitoring the development of Shenlong, viewing it as a potential competitor to the American X-37B spaceplane, which performs strategic military tasks.
Mission Features and Capabilities of the Vehicle
The first flight of Shenlong took place in September 2020 and lasted only two days. The subsequent two launches were significantly longer — 276 and 268 days respectively. During each mission, the vehicle delivered an unknown object into orbit. According to Western experts, maneuvers were observed during the second and third flights between the spacecraft and these objects, which may indicate testing of refueling or satellite repair technologies in space.
Chinese state media only reported a “technological verification of reusable spacecraft for peaceful use of space.”
During the third mission, signals were detected being transmitted over North America, leading experts to speculate on the use of Shenlong as a platform for electronic reconnaissance. Many specialists believe that the program has significant military implications in addition to its civilian applications.
So far, China has not released any official images of the spacecraft. Experts estimate that in size and capabilities, Shenlong may be comparable to the X-37B. Beijing sees the development of reusable space systems as an opportunity to reduce launch costs, increase their frequency, and strengthen its position in the global space competition.