China’s secret spacecraft returns to Earth after 9-month mission

Reusable vehicle lands after spending 276 days in orbit, marking an ‘important breakthrough’

Little is known about the classified craft, which some suspect could be used to gather intelligence

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Experts believe the Chinese reusable unmanned spacecraft is likely to be similar in size and design to the US Air Force’s X-37B, pictured at a California military base. Photo: AP

Published: 3:00pm, 8 May 2023Updated: 3:09pm, 8 May 2023

Chinese space authorities said a reusable uncrewed space vehicle returned to Earth on Monday morning after 276 days in orbit – more than 100 times longer than its maiden flight less than three years ago.

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the nation’s biggest space defence contractor, hailed the classified mission as a “complete success”, saying it “marks an important breakthrough” in China’s research into the technology.

Reusable spacecraft “will provide a more convenient and cost-effective way for peaceful use of space”, the company said.

Little is known about the craft – which spent two days in orbit on its first mission in September 2020 – and China’s space authorities have not released any pictures or technical data.

Some experts suspect the Chinese craft could be equipped with advanced imaging and sensing equipment to gather intelligence on potential targets or monitor sensitive areas of interest.

Another potential use is the deployment of small satellites or other payloads into orbit. This could include communications satellites, navigation systems, or other types of sensors that could be used for military or government purposes.

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