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China's space cargo shuttle highlights reusablity, cost-saving

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      China

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      China's space cargo shuttle highlights reusablity, cost-saving

      2024-11-11 17:16 Last Updated At:19:27

      China's Haolong space cargo shuttle, which will be unveiled at the upcoming 15th China Air Show, highlights outstanding reusability, which will significantly reduce the cost of cargo transport mission in space.

      The space shuttle, developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute under the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), was among the winning projects of China's development plans for low-cost cargo spacecraft and manned lunar rover.

      It has been awarded a contract for the engineering flight verification phase, and will be officially unveiled at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, which will be held in south China's Zhuhai City from Nov. 12 to 17.

      The developers said that Haolong can re-enter the atmosphere and land horizontally, realizing reuse in a flight-like manner, which will greatly reduce the cost of cargo transport mission in space.

      The Haolong space cargo shuttle is a large-winged spacecraft. It will be sent into the space station's orbit by a carrier rocket. After entering orbit, it will unfold its wings immediately, approach the space station, and conduct rendezvous and docking through orbital maneuvering strategies such as long-range autonomous guidance and short-range autonomous control.

      "During the docking period, the cargo hold of Haolong will be opened and connected to the space station cabin, and astronauts can enter and exit the cargo hold freely to fetch the cargo brought to the space station or place the materials to be sent to earth according to their needs. After completing the cargo transport mission, Haolong will separate from the space station, autonomously deorbit and brake, re-enter the atmosphere, and land horizontally on the designated airport runway without power with due energy management. After inspection, maintenance and repair, it will be able to perform cargo transport missions again," said Fang Yuanpeng, chief designer of Haolong space cargo shuttle.

      At present, the design scheme of the space shuttle has been completed, and the project has entered the stage of full-scale engineering research and development.

      "We applied the latest technological achievements to Haolong, giving new vitality to the space shuttle. Haolong has strong maneuverability, giving it more chances and a wider window for returning safely. At the same time, we have better flight mechanics environment today, and landing on the airport runway facilitates the rapid intervention of ground support resources, making the space shuttle safer, more reliable and more convenient for the mission," Fang said.

      China's space cargo shuttle highlights reusablity, cost-saving

      China's space cargo shuttle highlights reusablity, cost-saving

      Next Article

      Winter fun activities draw tourists to Sichuan, Hubei

      2024-12-25 05:22 Last Updated At:06:17

      Ice and snow sports enthusiasts and tourists alike are enjoying numerous winter fun activities launched to boost tourism in southwest China's Sichuan Province and central China's Hubei Province.

      In Ya'an City, Sichuan Province, a local ski resort opened to the public on Monday, featuring ski shows. Performers in various ski costumes demonstrated impressive skiing skills, drawing cheers from the audience. Both professional skiers and beginners were able to enjoy the thrill of skiing in winter here.

      "It's my first time to try skiing. It's exciting and fun. I can see the Minya Konka peak, which is stunning," said Chen Keyi, a tourist.

      "There are many winter tourism activities, and the temperature is perfect. We feel comfortable and cozy," said Qu Feng, another tourist.

      In addition to performances, local authorities have used the area's natural resources, combining winter tourism with hot springs and local cuisine.

      In Huanggang City, Hubei Province, skiers from nearby areas flock to the Taohuachong Ski Resort to experience the speed and excitement of winter sports. At an altitude of 1,088 meters, surrounded by pines and cedars, this ski resort stands out for its breathtaking views of rime. To enhance the tourist experience, Taohuachong has added three new ski runs.

      "This ski resort is huge. We feel relaxed," said Li Mei, a tourist.

      Local authorities have also integrated various resources, including ice and snow, hot springs, cuisine, and cultural products, to create a range of one-stop winter tourism experiences. With favorable winter tourism policies, these offerings are drawing more visitors.

      "We headed for the hot spring right after skiing. It's been a wonderful and cozy experience," said Xia Ling, a tourist.

      Winter fun activities draw tourists to Sichuan, Hubei

      Winter fun activities draw tourists to Sichuan, Hubei

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