China recently made headlines with the launch of an unmanned module, “Tianhe” or “Harmony of the Heavens,” for its developing permanent space station. The project is slated for completion by the end of 2022 and furthers China’s goal to become a significant power within the realm of space exploration. Concurrently, India has also expressed intentions to establish a base in low earth orbit for future microgravity experiments, projected to come into fruition within the next 5 to 7 years.
The Background of Space Stations
At present, the International Space Station (ISS) is the only space station in orbit. It serves as a spacecraft for supporting crew members, stays in space for extended periods, and allows other spacecraft to dock for various experiments. The ISS is supported by several nations, including the United States, Russia, Europe, Japan, and Canada.
China, though a latecomer in space exploration, managed to send its first astronaut into orbit in 2003, making it the third country to do so after the Soviet Union and the US. Thus far, China has sent two preliminary space stations – the Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2 into orbit. The aforementioned were simple modules that facilitated short stays for astronauts.
China’s New Space Station
This new 66-tonne, multi-module Tiangong station is designed to be operational for at least 10 years. Tianhe represents one of the three main components of China’s first self-developed space station capable of rivalling the only other station in service – the ISS. The Tianhe would serve as the primary living quarters for three crew members.
The Tianhe launch signifies the first of 11 missions aimed at completing the space station, which will orbit Earth at an altitude of 340 to 450 km. In due course, China plans to launch two other core modules, four manned spacecraft, and four cargo spacecraft.
The Implications for China
With an objective to become a key space power by 2030, China has accelerated its space programme with lunar visits, Mars probes, and the construction of its own space station. In contrast, the ISS’s future remains uncertain with its operating agreement set to expire in 2024, unless further funding is secured from its partners. In a significant development, Russia has recently announced its intention to withdraw from the project from 2025.
Russia’s Growing Relationship with China
In response to escalating tensions with the US, Russia is strengthening its space ties with China. The country has rejected the US-led Artemis moon exploration programme, opting instead to join China in developing a lunar research outpost in the years to come.
China’s Other Space Missions
Apart from building a space station, China has embarked on other significant missions, including the Chang’e-5 to the moon and the Tianwen-1 to Mars, demonstrating its commitment to becoming a front-runner in the realm of space exploration.