According to SpaceNews reports, two Chinese experimental satellites, “Shiyan-21” and “Shiyan-25,” recently separated in geostationary orbit following several months of collaborative operations.
It is presumed these craft tested in-orbit refueling technology—a crucial element for forthcoming lunar and deep-space missions.
Why orbital refueling is necessary
Orbital replenishment extends the service life of satellites and lessens the need for additional launches. Much like refueling an automobile allows for greater travel distance without replacing the vehicle entirely, space refueling assists spacecraft in reaching distant destinations. This capability is needed not only for space exploration but also in the military sphere: spy satellites can remain active longer, and obsolete assets can be utilized again.
Experts note that SpaceX is considering similar procedures within the Starship program, planning the transport of heavy cargo and crews to the Moon and Mars.
How the tests transpired
The docking of Shiyan-21 and Shiyan-25 occurred around the end of June. Prior to this, the craft repeatedly approached each other, executing precise orbital maneuvers. Independent observers, including the US company COMSPOC and Switzerland’s S2a, reported the satellites successfully mated and then separated after a time, without causing mutual damage.
After docking, they altered their orbital inclination, adjusting their position relative to Earth’s equator. The separation took place at an altitude of 35,786 kilometers, near the geosynchronous belt. This might signify that China has successfully demonstrated refueling at such an altitude for the first time, although official confirmation from the PRC’s space agency is still forthcoming.
Shiyan-21 previously exhibited complex maneuvers
Launched in October 2021, Shiyan-21 earlier demonstrated the capability to tow the decommissioned navigation satellite Beidou-2 G2 to a graveyard orbit. This operation served as preparation for the refueling test with Shiyan-25.
Before the newer satellite’s launch, the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology stated its primary purpose was to verify refueling techniques in geostationary orbit and prolong the active mission duration of the assets. Tracking them indicates the maneuver was successful: the satellites completed all mating and separation procedures.
Why this is significant for the world and space
“Shiyan-21 and Shiyan-25 could mark a breakthrough for deep space exploration,” stated a SpaceNews source. Refueling technology is vital for launching large missions, where vessels require extra propellant for extended voyages.
Simultaneously, the operation raises concerns in the United States. The geostationary orbit is heavily utilized for communications satellites and early warning systems. During the maneuvers, two American observation satellites, USA-270 and USA-271, were positioned near the Chinese craft, recording every action.
According to specialists, successful refueling could grant China a strategic benefit, akin to possessing an in-space fueling station. It opens avenues for extending satellite longevity and reusing hardware, something previously considered the realm of science fiction.
Official confirmation from China is absent, but continued monitoring will help determine the true success of the trial. The achievement of Shiyan-25 and its interaction with Shiyan-21 create novel prospects for exploring the Moon, Mars, and other distant celestial bodies.
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