China space program

China’s bid to return lunar samples from the far side of the Moon will have long-term strategic and geopolitical implications.

The rationale behind the new “Aerospace Force.”

China is actively pursuing space superiority while acquiring and developing counter-space capabilities and technologies.

This year, the Chinese station is slated for two cargo spacecraft missions and two manned spaceflight missions.

As China has increased its political and economic cooperation with Latin America, it has also expanded its space engagement with the region.

Having inexpensive and reusable space access – China’s goal in developing the Shenlong spaceplane – carries major national security implications.

In some ways, China’s Shenlong is similar to the U.S. X-37B reusable space plane, whose planned operations and capabilities have similarly remained unclear.

From heavy-lift reusable rockets to satellite internet, a look at China’s progress on top space priorities.

China’s plan for a super heavy, reusable rocket has gotten far less attention than SpaceX’s Starship, but will be equally important over the long run. 

As the race to commercially exploit the Moon heats up, India’s latest mission has big ramifications. 

Insights from Carla Freeman.