The global space race continues to heat up as China has launched its reusable Shenlong space plane for the third time amidst competition with the U.S. Space Force’s X-37B. The spacecraft, shrouded in secrecy, just embarked on its latest mission to conduct space science experiments and provide technical support for the peaceful use of space. The rapid follow-up launches and delayed liftoff of the U.S. spaceplane signal an intensifying space race between the two superpowers.
Little is known about the objectives of China’s experimental Shenlong space plane, as it just embarked on its 3rd-ever mission. The spacecraft was lofted from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Thursday, December 14, using a Long March 2F rocket. According to Xinhua news, the mission aims to conduct space science experiments and provide technical support for the peaceful use of space.
The timing of the launch has captured attention as it comes just seven months after the spacecraft’s last mission, signifying a much quicker follow-up compared to the first and second launches, which happened 23 months apart. This swift turnaround coincided with multiple delays and a scrubbed liftoff of the U.S. Space Force’s X-37B reusable space plane. The mission, known as USSF-52, was stood down from its 7th planned liftoff to “perform additional system checkouts.”
Meanwhile, Chief of Space Operations, Gen. B. Chance Saltzman, indicated a brighter future for the X-37B, thanks to the Pentagon’s competition with China. Suggesting that it’s “probably no coincidence” that China’s own space plane may launch around the same time as the X-37B, he highlighted the competitive nature of the ongoing space race between the two nations. The X-37B, known for its long missions in space, shattered records with its most recent 908-day flight, showcasing its utility for testing new technologies and the effects of long-term space exposure.
As China’s Shenlong space plane continues its enigmatic pursuits in space, the intensifying competition with the U.S. remains apparent. The secrecy surrounding the objectives and payloads of both space planes adds an intriguing layer to the modern-day space race, raising questions about the future exploits and advancements in space technology. With both nations vying for supremacy in space exploration and technology, the next move in this high-stakes game could shape the future of space missions and international relations.
