China successfully retrieves first reusable test satellite Shijian-19
by Clarence Oxford
Beijing (SPX) Oct 13, 2024

China has successfully retrieved its first reusable and returnable test satellite, Shijian-19, marking a significant achievement in the country's space program. According to the China National Space Administration (CNSA), the satellite was recovered at the Dongfeng landing site in Inner Mongolia at 10:39 a.m. Beijing Time on Friday.

"All the returnable payloads in fields like plant and microorganism breeding, autonomous control and new technology validation, space science experiments, as well as social welfare and cultural innovation, have been retrieved smoothly," said the CNSA.

Shijian-19, launched on September 27 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, has made key technological advancements. These include breakthroughs in reusability, damage-free recovery, and high microgravity assurance. The flight tests verified the satellite's performance as a high-performance reusable space platform and met all the expected technical benchmarks.

With high microgravity levels and efficient performance, Shijian-19 serves as a critical tool for space science research. It supports studies in areas such as microgravity science and space life science, offering timely and reliable results.

Additionally, researchers utilized the satellite to conduct space breeding experiments, validate new technologies, and further space science experiments, all aimed at advancing space technology applications.

Shijian-19 also carried several payloads for international collaborations, enhancing China's role in global space exploration efforts.

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