US satellite imagery captures Chinese spaceplane in orbit
High-resolution commercial satellite imagery has provided the first public view of China's reusable spaceplane while in low-Earth orbit.
Commercial imaging firm Vantor, formerly Maxar, captured photographs of a Chinese spacecraft earlier this year, revealing design specifications that resemble the United States Space Force’s X-37B. The imagery confirms the presence of delta wings, a cargo bay, and a rear-mounted service module.
The capture of these images highlights the increasing capability of private satellite operators to conduct space-based surveillance. Traditionally, tracking objects in orbit was the exclusive domain of state-sponsored intelligence agencies, but commercial Earth-imaging constellations are increasingly being repurposed to monitor orbital assets.
The visual similarity between the Chinese vessel and the US X-37B has drawn comparisons regarding the development of reusable orbital vehicles. While details on the craft's specific mission profile remain classified by Chinese authorities, the images confirm that both nations are pursuing parallel aerodynamic designs for long-duration space flight.