China has chosen four proposals to advance to the next stage of developing a low-cost cargo transportation system for its space station. Out of the 10 proposals received, four have been selected for a detailed design study phase. The selected groups include the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites (IAMCAS), and the Chengdu Aircraft Design Institute. The system must be capable of sending at least 1,800 kilograms to low Earth orbit and offer a price of no more than $17.2 million per 1,000 kilograms delivered.
China Narrows Field for Low-Cost Space Station Cargo Missions
The China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) has announced that four proposals have been chosen to advance to the next stage of developing a low-cost cargo transportation system for China’s space station. The selected groups include the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites (IAMCAS), and the Chengdu Aircraft Design Institute. The system must meet specific requirements such as payload capacity and price, and the agency has not provided further information on the timeline for approval and implementation.
State-Owned Entities Selected
All four groups selected for the next stage belong to state-owned entities, raising questions about the involvement of commercial firms in the development of the low-cost cargo transportation system. The China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT), a commercial firm, did not make the cut, despite its plans to launch a reusable cargo spacecraft. Another company, InterSpace Explore, also did not make the selection, possibly due to delays caused by a recent rocket failure. The CMSEO’s aim to explore the development of commercial space models seems to be limited to state-owned entities for now.
Future Phases and Implementation
The CMSEO did not provide details on future phases or a timeline for the approval and implementation of the selected proposals. It remains to be seen how many proposals will eventually receive approval and contribute to the development of the low-cost cargo transportation system for China’s space station. The agency’s call for proposals aimed to reduce costs and enhance flexibility in supplying the space station, but it seems that only state-owned entities have made it to the next stage so far.
