China’s First Reusable Satellite Returns to Earth

China’s first reusable satellite, the Shijian-19, completed a two-week mission in low Earth orbit, landing at the Dongfeng site near the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert. This mission marks a significant advancement in China’s space program, particularly in space-based agricultural research and the development of reusable space technologies.

Launched on a Long March 2D rocket on September 27, Shijian-19 carried multiple payloads aimed at advancing space science and technology. These included experiments in plant and microbial breeding, as well as tests of autonomous and controllable technologies.

“This mission carried out space breeding, new technology verification, and space science experiments, and focused on promoting the development and application of new space technologies,” stated the China National Space Administration (CNSA).

One of the most notable aspects of the Shijian-19 mission was its emphasis on space-based plant mutation research. Seeds from various locations were exposed to the conditions of space, including microgravity and radiation, to assess their responses.

“Exposing seeds to the environment in low Earth orbit could help accelerate the genetic mutation of plants,” explained the CNSA. This research is of particular interest to China, given its limited arable land and growing need to enhance food security. It could potentially lead to crops that are more resilient and produce higher yields.

Shijian-19 also served as a testbed for reusable spacecraft technology. Weighing approximately 3,500 kilograms, this version of the satellite was designed for short-term missions lasting about two weeks. A long-term version, currently under development, will feature solar arrays and extended capabilities, potentially supporting missions lasting months or longer.

This mission builds on the legacy of China’s Fanhui Shi Weixing recoverable satellites, first launched in the 1970s. The spacecraft's heat shields, which were historically made from materials like impregnated oak, have been upgraded in the Shijian series to incorporate more advanced technologies, further enhancing the efficiency and reliability of satellite recovery.

This was China’s 46th orbital mission in 2024, with the next crewed mission, Shenzhou-19, expected to launch later this month. Additionally, China is preparing to launch a second batch of satellites for its Qianfan megaconstellation in the near future.