Russian media takes note: the International Space Station is heading for demise, while China's "Tiangong" prepares for expansion.
All signs point to the possibility that, after 2031, there may be only one low Earth orbit space station remaining in the sky—and it will be China's.
May 4, the Russian newspaper published an article.
China has unveiled plans to expand its Tiangong space station to six modules.
Against the backdrop of the International Space Station scheduled to re-enter the Pacific Ocean in 2030, China aims to solidify its leadership by transforming its current T-shaped structure into a cross-shaped configuration with six modules.
According to data already released, the evolution of Tiangong will begin with the addition of a multifunctional module to the Tianhe core module.
This new module will be larger than the existing core module, designed as a central node equipped with multiple docking interfaces and dedicated airlocks for extravehicular activities.
It will also serve as the primary installation platform for two future experimental modules.
Chinese experts point out that although the specific implementation timeline for this project has not yet been announced, the expansion aims to meet growing demands for orbital research and broaden opportunities for international cooperation.
The large-scale construction will be supported by an upgraded Long March 5B launch vehicle featuring a larger fairing, along with an improved robotic arm developed by engineers at the China Academy of Space Technology.
These robotic arms will offer higher precision and greater power, meeting the complex requirements of future space station assembly and maintenance tasks.
The Russian newspaper notes: China’s Tiangong can accommodate three crew members (temporarily up to six during crew rotation), with a volume equivalent to a three-bedroom apartment—approximately 110 cubic meters.
This makes it the third multi-module crewed orbital space station in the world, following Russia’s Mir space station and the International Space Station—but smaller in mass and size than both.
Russian media says China’s plan is admirable, but people are still wondering: where is the “Space Sky Survey” space telescope, a crucial complement to the space station?
We love and eagerly await its launch, hoping it will be sent into orbit before the end of this year.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864208611980292/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.