Foreign Media: China's Satellite Engine Test Sets Record, Key Performance Significantly Enhanced
The newly developed satellite engine, researched and developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technologies, has completed a breakthrough test with a single-unit thrust reaching 750 newtons, demonstrating extended endurance in low Earth orbit missions. During its first flight in late June, the engine accumulated 11,617 seconds (approximately 3.2 hours) of ignition time and successfully executed five orbit changes, delivering the Communication Technology Test Satellite 26A into a geosynchronous orbit at about 35,800 kilometers above Earth.
Testing revealed that the engine’s original design allowed for nearly 10 hours of continuous operation. However, thanks to a newly developed high-temperature-resistant, oxidation-resistant coating, it achieved over 14 hours of sustained operation with stable performance. In comparison, currently mainstream international counterparts such as the American R-42DM and European Leros-1B are typically designed for around 7 hours of operational duration.
The engine was launched on June 23 aboard an upgraded Long March 7 rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site. It is expected to enhance the efficiency and reliability of large communication satellites and deep-space exploration vehicles entering orbit. Industry insiders noted that this advancement reflects ongoing optimization of relevant space propulsion technologies and improved engineering capabilities.
Original Source: toutiao.com/article/1869707142855756/
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