Latest news with #COMSPOC
Newsweek
14-07-2025
- Science
- Newsweek
China Appears to Pull Off Satellite Feat That NASA Has Never Achieved
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Two remote-controlled Chinese satellites appear to have docked in high orbit to allow refueling and servicing for the first time. The achievement, which has yet to be matched by the U.S, involved autonomous spacecraft Shijian-21 and Shijian-25, completing the task in geostationary orbit earlier this month. Geostationary orbits occur at 22,236 miles above the surface, and are typically used for communications satellites so that they can move with the rotation of the Earth. However, the high orbit and need for satellites to maintain speeds with the Earth's rotation makes docking extremely difficult. The event, not so far confirmed by China, was reported after optical sensor data suggested the satellites "appeared visually merged" between July 2 and July 6, according to space situational awareness provider COMSPOC, based in the U.S. Newsweek contacted NASA and the China National Space Administration for more information on the situation via email. Why It Matters If confirmed, China's achievement would highlight major advancements in space servicing capabilities—an area long pursued by global space agencies. Refueling satellites during flight extends their operational life span and reduces space debris, benefits considered critical for maintaining sustainable long-term operations in ever-more-crowded orbital pathways. NASA has previously achieved autonomous docking and fuel transfer in low Earth orbit with the 2007 DARPA Orbital Express mission, but has not managed the process in the higher, more challenging geostationary orbit in which the Shijian mission occurred. What To Know The close-proximity operations were observed alongside two American military surveillance satellites stationed nearby to monitor the historic maneuver. The operation involved carefully coordinated movements as Shijian-25 approached and maneuvered near Shijian-21 throughout June and early July, culminating in the period when they appeared to converge, according to U.S. and Swiss tracking sources. Tracking from COMSPOC and other space surveillance organizations indicated the following sequence: Shijian-25, which launched earlier in 2025 to test mission-extension technologies, moved steadily toward Shijian-21 starting in early June. Stock image: The International Space Station docking over Tunisia, May, 2016. Stock image: The International Space Station docking over Tunisia, May, 2016. Getty Images The two achieved a close approach on June 13 before temporarily separating 90 minutes later. Another round of close-proximity operations took place on June 30, observed from Earth by optical tracking firm s2a Systems in Switzerland. During these maneuvers, the satellites orbited at over 22,000 miles above the equator, firmly in geostationary territory. Shijian-25's mission reportedly aimed to use robotic arms to latch onto Shijian-21 and replenish its fuel, enabling extended mission life. Shijian-21 had previously depleted much of its fuel in 2022 while towing a defunct BeiDou navigation satellite into a higher, inactive "graveyard" orbit, thus contributing to debris reduction. What People Are Saying Swiss optical tracking firm s2a Systems said on July 2: "After a day with small but relatively constant distance yesterday, the two objects came closer again today and can no longer be separated by our instrument since about 11:00 UTC (7 p.m. Beijing time)" What Happens Next Further confirmation of the suspected refueling and on-orbit servicing between Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 will depend on statements from Chinese authorities or future international tracking analysis.
South China Morning Post
13-07-2025
- Science
- South China Morning Post
China's Shijian satellite pair appears to dock in orbit for historic refuelling mission
Two Chinese satellites may have docked in geostationary orbit for a historic refuelling mission, an autonomous satellite servicing feat the United States has yet to achieve. China's Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 'appeared visually merged in optical sensor data' between July 2 and July 6, US-based space situational awareness software provider COMSPOC said on Saturday in a social media post. 'Given the prolonged RPO time, SJ-21 and SJ-25 may have docked,' it said, using the acronym for 'rendezvous and proximity operations'. The two probes were observed carrying out such operations in geosynchronous orbit in June and July 'with multiple close approaches', it added. The first close approach was observed on June 11, when Shijian-25 continued its 'steady drift towards' Shijian-21, and the two came within 1km (0.6 mile) of each other on June 13 before separating 90 minutes later, according to COMSPOC. US surveillance satellites USA 270 and USA 271 flanked the Chinese satellites from east and west at the time and were positioned for optimal viewing angles, the company said. According to optical tracking images from Swiss space surveillance firm s2a systems, the Chinese satellites, both orbiting at an altitude of 35,786km (22,236 miles) above the equator, carried out another round of close-proximity operations on June 30.
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First Post
09-07-2025
- Science
- First Post
China attempts unique feat in space, its 2 satellites try orbital refuelling at over 35,000 km altitude
China may have just become the first country to attempt satellite-to-satellite refuelling in geosynchronous orbit read more China appears to be on the verge of accomplishing a groundbreaking manoeuvre in space by attempting an orbital refuelling operation at geosynchronous altitude, some 35,786 kilometres above the Earth. According to reports, satellite movement suggested that the Chinese satellites Shijian-21 (SJ-21) and Shijian-25 (SJ-25) have recently docked in orbit, an event that may mark the first attempt at satellite-to-satellite refuelling at such an altitude. This development, although not confirmed by official Chinese sources, has sparked considerable interest and concern within the international space and defence communities. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to open-source satellite trackers and optical imagery shared by firms like s2a systems and COMSPOC, SJ-21 and SJ-25 approached each other multiple times between June 13 and June 30, with the final rendezvous seemingly occurring on July 2. The two satellites have remained together ever since leading observers to believe that docking, and possibly refuelling, has occurred, Ars Technica reported. A dual-use technology with strategic implications Though the Chinese government has offered little recent commentary, earlier disclosures provide some insight. The Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), which developed both satellites, stated that SJ-25 was designed for 'the verification of satellite fuel replenishment and life extension service technologies'. Meanwhile, SJ-21, launched in 2021, had previously demonstrated its ability to capture and tow a defunct Beidou navigation satellite to a graveyard orbit, an operation officially described as a space debris mitigation test, reported. However, experts believe that there is more at stake than orbital cleanliness. Technologies capable of docking, manoeuvring and potentially refuelling satellites are considered 'dual-use,' suitable for both peaceful applications and military strategies. As former US Space Force Lt Gen John Shaw pointed out, these capabilities could eventually enable one satellite to intercept, inspect or even disable another nation's satellite without causing destructive debris, an article in Ars Technica said. Shaw emphasised that dynamic space operations, essentially the ability to move, inspect and refuel satellites, are a growing priority for the US military. However, he expressed concern that China might be leading the race, especially if the SJ-25 has successfully delivered fuel to the presumably depleted SJ-21. Importance of geosynchronous orbit Geosynchronous orbit (GEO) holds particular strategic importance for both military and commercial satellite operations. At this altitude, satellites remain fixed over a single point on Earth, making them ideal for tasks like secure military communications and early missile detection. Given the sensitivity and value of assets stationed in GEO, any operations involving close approaches or docking manoeuvres naturally attract scrutiny. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Because of this, the United States deployed two of its GSSAP (Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Programme) satellites—USA 270 and USA 271—to observe the Chinese activity. These satellites are designed to manoeuvre around GEO and inspect objects up close. However, as Shaw noted, their range is limited by fuel constraints, which is precisely why refuelling capabilities in space are being so closely watched, the South China Morning Post reported. Technical challenges and capabilities Refuelling in orbit, especially without human involvement, is an extraordinarily complex process. Unlike refuelling operations on space stations like the ISS or China's Tiangong, which benefit from human oversight, satellite-to-satellite refuelling must be performed autonomously. According to a 2022 paper in Aerospace Systems, challenges include precise docking, fuel transfer in microgravity and the risk of propellant boil-off. Once two spacecraft are docked, the servicing satellite, in this case SJ-25, would need to latch onto the target, likely with a robotic arm, remove protective coverings and initiate fluid transfer via pressurised systems. Propellants such as hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide, commonly used in satellite thrusters, must be handled with extreme care due to their volatile nature. a report in the South China Morning Post said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Watching the watchers While China's demonstration is notable, it also reveals the escalating game of orbital chess now playing out above Earth. The US Space Force's inspector satellites were not the only watchers. China's own operators have become adept at evading surveillance. Shaw observed that Chinese satellites have been known to manoeuvre away when approached by GSSAP satellites, exploiting their predictable and limited movement patterns. If China succeeds in enabling its satellites to refuel at will, its capacity for dynamic space operations could outpace the US, diminishing the surveillance effectiveness of American assets like GSSAP. As Shaw remarked, 'the marginal cost of those maneuvers for them becomes even lower, and the challenge for GSSAP becomes even greater,' the Ars Technica said quoting the former military official. Global precedents and comparisons While this is potentially a first for high-orbit refuelling, it is not humanity's first venture into on-orbit servicing. In low Earth orbit, DARPA's Orbital Express mission in 2007 demonstrated autonomous docking and fuel transfer between two satellites. In geosynchronous orbit, Northrop Grumman's Mission Extension Vehicles (MEV-1 and MEV-2) successfully docked with ageing commercial satellites to extend their operational lifetimes, though without actually transferring propellant, said. Japan's Astroscale is also entering the arena, planning to demonstrate fluid-based refuelling in the coming year. Nasa, meanwhile, has been preparing its own high-profile OSAM-1 mission (On-orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing), previously known as Restore-L, to refuel government satellites in low orbit. However, none of these missions—past or planned—has matched China's current feat in terms of orbital altitude, complexity or autonomy. India's position in on-orbit servicing India, while a growing space power with a track record of cost-effective innovation, currently lags behind in the niche domain of on-orbit satellite servicing and refuelling, especially at high altitudes like geosynchronous orbit. The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has yet to announce or demonstrate capabilities akin to China's Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 missions or the US's Northrop Grumman's Mission Extension Vehicles. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Isro has focussed heavily on Earth observation, communication satellites, planetary exploration and lunar missions such as Chandrayaan-3. India may eventually step into satellite servicing, given the growing importance of space sustainability and the potential for public-private partnerships in the sector. For now, India is more likely to observe global developments closely and build the requisite infrastructure before attempting such complex, autonomous operations in high Earth orbit. Unanswered questions and next steps Despite the numerous data points from commercial trackers like COMSPOC and optical firms such as S2A Systems, significant uncertainty remains. Joe Callaro, COMSPOC's operations lead, emphasised the limitations of visual tracking when two satellites become 'one pixel' in telescope imagery. RF and radar data help improve confidence, but they don't replace direct confirmation, according to Ars Technica. If confirmed, the success of this high-orbit refuelling test may signal a paradigm shift in how space operations are conducted both commercially and militarily. The ability to refuel satellites in geosynchronous orbit could dramatically extend their operational lives, reduce costs and enhance responsiveness to emerging threats. At the same time, it also highlights the need for transparency and dialogue in space affairs. With multiple nations now capable of sophisticated satellite servicing and, potentially, disruption, international norms and safeguards may be more urgent than ever.
South China Morning Post
02-07-2025
- Science
- South China Morning Post
China could be about to attempt a landmark satellite refuelling test
China's first satellite-to-satellite refuelling test appears to be imminent after a second round of close-proximity operations between two probes in high orbit on Monday. The landmark Chinese mission will be one of the most ambitious attempts at autonomous satellite servicing in geostationary orbit, which rival the United States has yet to achieve. On Monday, the Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 spacecraft – both orbiting at an altitude of 35,786km (22,236 miles) above the equator – came within extremely close range after days of closing in on each other, according to Swiss space surveillance firm s2a Systems. The optical tracking image shows the two satellites nearly indistinguishable from each other, suggesting they may be about to attempt docking and potentially even conduct the refuelling and servicing test that is the primary mission of the Shijian-25. The two satellites had a similar encounter on June 13, when they reportedly came within 1km of each other before separating 90 minutes later. That manoeuvre could have been a rehearsal for docking, or an aborted attempt at docking, according to US-based space situational awareness software company COMSPOC. 11:05 Space race elevates Asia in new world order Space race elevates Asia in new world order The Shijian-25 was designed to test 'on-orbit refuelling and satellite life-extension technologies', Chinese state media reported when the probe was launched in January. It said the mission aimed to verify capabilities for maintaining and prolonging the operational lifespan of satellites already in orbit as a way to reduce costs, improve sustainability and to help address growing concerns over space debris.
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Science
- Time of India
What is China really doing in space? Mysterious satellite maneuver stuns experts
China's activities in space have recently taken a quiet but significant turn, which might be a sign of a major evolution in how we think about satellite operations. In today's world, technology, sustainability, and national security are intertwined with one another. Such missions seem to explore the possibilities far above Earth. Recent movements by China in geostationary orbit are being closely watched by the space community, which has posted the observations on its official X handle. On January 6, 2025, a Long March 3B rocket launched from Xichang carried Shijian‑25 into geostationary transfer orbit. Built by Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), it's officially tasked with 'satellite fuel replenishment and life extension service technology verification,' reported Shijian-21 was launched in October 2021 on a Long March 3B rocket. Its mission was to dock with an old, no longer working satellite called Beidou-2 G2 and move it to a safe, out-of-the-way orbit above the regular geostationary satellites. This 'graveyard orbit' helps keep space clear and prevents collisions with active satellites. Both these Chinese satellites made a close approach in June Ground‑based tracking by S2A Systems detected Shijian‑21 and ‑25 converging in GEO during mid‑June. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 4BHK+Family Lounge+Utility room at 4.49Cr (All Incl)* ATS Triumph, Gurgaon Book Now Undo On June 14, they were 'virtually unresolvable from the other,' indicating a close rendezvous, which is likely expected to be a docking test, as reported by Observations also noted earlier manoeuvres on June 13 and 14, and an expected rendezvous around June 11 based on their orbital trajectories. How can this test be useful? Refuelling and servicing satellites in GEO could drastically extend their service life, reduce space debris, and lower launch demands. Shijian‑25 was intended to rendezvous with Shijian‑21 because they are in a phased orbit, which means sharing orbital elements but staggered in longitude, which can result in lowering the fuel needed for proximity operations. Although this mission is described as a civilian technology test, the close movements of the satellites have raised some concerns. According to COMSPOC OPS on social media, two US satellites, called USA 270 and USA 271, are nearby, probably keeping an eye on the Chinese satellites. COMSPOC explained, 'USA 270 and 271 now flank SJ-21 and SJ-25 from the east and west—potentially enabling favorable sun angles depending on the timing of closest approach. ' According to COMSPOC, the ongoing activity between China's Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 satellites is unfolding in a particularly busy and sensitive area of geostationary orbit (GEO). COMSPOC also stated clearly, 'While these U.S. assets aren't directly involved, their proximity adds complexity to the local SSA picture — and raises strategic awareness concerns.' In other words, even if there's no direct interaction, just being close in such a critical orbital region makes the dynamics more complicated and potentially riskier.
