Foreign media: Chinese scientists have recently released a space launcher designed to clear dangerous space debris in Earth's orbit, but the device also has potential for weaponization.

The launcher was jointly developed by aerospace engineers from Nanjing, Shanghai, and Shenyang, and was published in the authoritative journal "Acta Aeronautica Sinica." Unlike traditional firearms that produce bright light, vibrations, and smoke, this launcher uses a closed gas energy absorption mechanism, which produces no smoke or light when fired, with minimal vibration, making the launch platform experience no noticeable impact.

The launcher propels a piston using high-pressure gas, triggering a pre-set weak point to release the projectile. The projectile contains a capture net used to recover debris. The 35-degree energy absorption ring near the muzzle folds like petals, absorbing most of the kinetic energy and vibration. This technology effectively addresses the increasingly serious problem of orbital debris, while its stealth and low-vibration characteristics have raised concerns about its potential military applications.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1840232398007299/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author(s) only.