Conversations with Chinese experts highlight several misperceptions about China's ambition in space.

Many of China's space capabilities are designed to counter U.S. military advantages.

China’s space program is venturing beyond simply seeking prestige and status.

Critics in Argentina say sovereign territory has been turned over to China’s PLA.

China will both launch the Tiangong-2 and conduct its next manned space mission in the second half of this year.

Plus, the PLAN's birthday, China in the Middle East, and the truth about Hong Kong's election plan. Friday China links.

The head of U.S. Strategic Command pointed to China's counter-space capabilities as an area of concern.

Indonesia's Maritime Security Coordinating Board will have access to Chinese remote sensing data.

Plus, China's plan for a space station, the "war on pollution," media blackmail, and China & IS. Friday China links.

The People's Liberation Army has reportedly established a fifth military service dedicated to aerospace operations.

A National Research Council report recommends lifting the ban on NASA-Chinese cooperation.

Plus, China's space program, private banks, and bleak prospects for political reform. Friday China links.

Plus, China's economic reforms, China's role in the Antarctic, and thoughts on space exploration. Friday China links.

The country’s space program will need sweeping reform before that happens.

Most orbital debris is U.S. or Russian in origin. But China’s space program exacerbates an urgent issue.

The PLA has made remarkable strides in its systems and capabilities. But operational challenges remain.