China's reusable satellites

China recently took an impressive step in its space race and this time with an achievement that promises to change the rules of the game, China's national space administration announced the successful return of Shijian-19, the country's first reusable and returnable test satellite. This satellite returned to Earth after an orbital mission that lasted two weeks, bringing with it technological advances that could revolutionize space research. The mission was full of ambitious goals and the satellite was designed to test cutting-edge technologies such as reusability, something that until Recently it seemed like a thing of the future and the most impressive thing is that the satellite achieved all the objectives set, from controlling re-entry into the atmosphere to validating new technologies. The Shijian-19 showed itself to be a true research platform in microgravity science and space life science. According to the State broadcaster CCTV, the satellite returned safely bringing with it a series of payloads, among them were experiments in various areas, such as the improvement of plants and microorganisms, the autonomous control of space systems, even technological innovations that could impact our daily lives, that is, what was tested in space could soon bring direct benefits here on earth.

To understand the importance of Shijian-19 we need to talk about traditional satellites, recently most of the satellites used for research were disposable, they were launched into orbit, carried out their missions and at the end a return capsule brought the data and samples back to the land. This was expensive and limited the duration of the missions, but now with Chinese reuse not only reducing the costs of its space programs but also accelerating the testing of new technologies, Shijian-19 was launched on September 27 aboard A long rocket marches from the satellite launch center in Jikan one of the main takeoff points in the country. Its mission included the validation of components and materials produced entirely in China, a strategic point for the country that seeks to reduce its dependence on foreign technologies. The CNSA did not disclose many details about the return of the satellite, but it is certain that the success of this mission represents a great victory for the Chinese space program.

One of the most curious loads transported by the satellite were seeds from the provinces of Hainan and Anhui that were exposed to the extreme conditions of space to induce mutations. This type of experiment can generate more resistant varieties of plants with new characteristics, a field of Promising research that can directly impact agriculture and food production. With the reuse of satellites and rockets, China is consolidating a leadership position in one of the most advanced fields of modern science. What will come next? That is the question that remains in the air, but one thing is certain: the sky is no longer It is the limit for the Chinese space program.