China’s First Reusable Satellite Retrieved With Payloads After Two Weeks

China’s space research endeavors have achieved a noteworthy achievement with the triumphant retrieval of Shijian-19, its inaugural reusable and returnable test satellite. Shijian-19 was recovered on Friday, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) reported, after a two-week orbital mission. Launched on September 27th, aboard a Long March 2D rocket from the Jiuquan spacecraft Launch Center, the spacecraft showcased technological innovations in reusability, payload efficiency, and re-entry.

Shijian-19 served as a platform for research in microgravity science and space life sciences, supporting experiments in plant and microorganism breeding, autonomous control, new technology validation, and space science. According to the CNSA, the satellite also contributed to social welfare and cultural innovation through its diverse range of payloads. Its retrieval highlights China’s growing expertise in developing cost-effective, reliable, and reusable space technologies. The Fifth Academy of the Aerospace Science and Technology Group developed Shijian-19 as part of a series aimed at scientific exploration. CCTV reported that the satellite’s flight tests confirmed the performance of domestically produced components, marking a crucial step in advancing China’s capabilities in reusable space experiment platforms. This represents a leap from traditional disposable satellites, which typically used single-use return capsules, lasting no more than a month.

The experiments aboard Shijian-19 included plant and microbial breeding, where seeds from Hainan and Anhui provinces were exposed to space conditions to induce mutations. This approach aims to accelerate agricultural advancements and technology verification in space environments.

China’s development of reusable satellites, which lowers costs and expedites the testing of new technologies, is a significant accomplishment for its space program. Future advancements in space exploration are being driven by the Chinese government’s and private sector’s focus on reusable spacecraft. China’s commitment to developing its reusable space technology is demonstrated by the successful launch of a reusable experimental spacecraft in December 2023, which comes after earlier flights in 2020 and 2022. This launch paves the way for ongoing advancements in this rapidly developing industry.