What To Know
- In 2024, China’s space endeavors soared to unprecedented heights, marking a pivotal shift in the global space race.
- Advancements in crewed missionsThe Chinese space station saw continuous occupancy this year with six-month crew rotations maintaining a permanent human presence in orbit.
- The challenge of new spaceDespite achieving nearly 70 launches in 2024—a slight improvement over last year’s record—China faced challenges with aging launch vehicles and delays in developing new launch sites and next-generation rockets.
In 2024, China’s space endeavors soared to unprecedented heights, marking a pivotal shift in the global space race. With ambitious missions and technological advancements, China is redefining its role in space exploration.
china’s satellite supremacy
This year, China launched over 275 satellites into orbit. A significant portion of these belong to private enterprises, showcasing the growing trust in commercial space ventures. This surge includes satellites for imaging, communication, and even autonomous vehicle positioning—demonstrating the broadening horizons of China’s space capabilities.
- Imaging satellites improve reconnaissance efficiency.
- Communication satellites enhance global connectivity.
- Meteorological satellites provide advanced weather forecasting.
military satellite constellations
The Chinese military has expanded its satellite constellations to boost resilience and reduce revisit time for intelligence gathering. This strategy ensures continuity of service even if some satellites are compromised. The US Space Force is increasingly concerned about the advancements in Chinese military space technology.
lunar ambitions
China made history by bringing back samples from the Moon’s far side with Chang’e 6—nearly 1,935 grams were retrieved. In total, three lunar missions took place in 2024:
- The Chang’e 6 mission.
- The Queqiao-2 relay satellite deployment.
- Two satellites testing retrograde orbit missions (DRO).
Significant progress was also made towards sending astronauts to the Moon by 2030 with ongoing developments in mega rockets and astronaut rovers. The construction of a Chinese lunar base is also gaining momentum through international partnerships.
advancements in crewed missions
The Chinese space station saw continuous occupancy this year with six-month crew rotations maintaining a permanent human presence in orbit. In December, Chinese astronauts conducted a record-breaking nine-hour extravehicular activity. Plans are underway to expand the station with inflatable modules that promise more space and reduced launch weight.
the challenge of new space
Despite achieving nearly 70 launches in 2024—a slight improvement over last year’s record—China faced challenges with aging launch vehicles and delays in developing new launch sites and next-generation rockets. The burgeoning New Space sector showed promise but struggled with funding issues leading to safety concerns during rapid development phases.
- A near-miss incident involved a startup’s demonstrator almost impacting a city.
This year also marked the initiation of China’s mega constellation deployments aimed at rivaling SpaceX‘s Starlink within China. Two major constellations are competing:
- Government-backed Guowang plans for 13,000 satellites (10 prototypes deployed).
- The Shanghai-financed G60 aims for 12,000 satellites (66 deployed).
international cooperation & scientific pursuits
This year’s international satellite launches by China were limited but notable. Collaborations continued with countries like France on scientific projects such as the Svom satellite and Dorn radon detector aboard Chang’e 6. Meanwhile, China’s Einstein telescope launched earlier this year to explore black holes and high-energy cosmic events alongside European partners.
