A mysterious Chinese spacecraft recently released an unidentified object into orbit about 600 kilometers above Earth's surface. U.S. experts are unsure of the object's exact purpose, but speculate it could be a small satellite or piece of hardware jettisoned prior to the spacecraft's expected deorbit.
Secret Shenlong Spacecraft
China's enigmatic Shenlong spacecraft has launched seven objects into orbit in the past six months, with the most recent deployment being tracked by the U.S. Space Force.
U.S. Space Force Monitoring
The spacecraft has been monitored by the U.S. Space Force since its launch atop a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on December 14, 2022.
Little Known About Spacecraft
Little is known about the spacecraft, though it appears to resemble a U.S.-developed Boeing spacecraft believed capable of making years-long orbital excursions.
History of Shenlong Spacecraft
The secretive Chinese spacecraft first launched in 2020 and remained in orbit for just two days. However, it has now spent 276 days in space on its second mission, which began in late 2022.
Previous Object Deployments
The Shenlong spacecraft deployed six smaller objects shortly after liftoff last year; each appeared to be transmitting some type of signal. Thus far, Chinese officials have been secretive about the spacecraft and its operations, making no mention of the nature of the mysterious objects or even acknowledging their existence.
U.S. Military's X-37B
Meanwhile, the U.S. military's X-37B spaceplane is also in orbit around Earth, having launched on December 28th last year aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
China's Official Statement
According to Xinhua, "After serving in orbit for a period of time, the experimental spacecraft will return to the designated landing site in China. During this period, it will conduct verification of reusable technology and carry out scientific experiments in space as planned, providing technical support for the peaceful use of space."
Potential Applications and U.S. Monitoring
Reusable spacecraft have potential commercial and scientific applications, including carrying passengers and more efficient satellite deployment. Nonetheless, the U.S. Space Force will continue to track the Shenlong mission until it returns to Earth.
Summary
China's enigmatic Shenlong spacecraft has deployed an unidentified object into orbit, prompting speculation about its purpose. Despite little information available, the U.S. Space Force is monitoring the spacecraft's movements. The deployment marks the latest in a series of objects launched by the Shenlong spacecraft, which has been in orbit for over 276 days. The development comes amidst the global rise in space exploration and highlights the growing capabilities of China's space program.