Chinese researchers have reportedly unveiled a novel satellite-to-satellite refueling operation in high Earth orbit, positioning China as a key player in the evolving space race. According to a paper under peer review for the Journal of Deep Space Exploration, the team claims that China successfully conducted “room-temperature propellant refueling” for a high-orbit BeiDou satellite for the first time.
While the specifics of the operation remain undisclosed, the researchers from the state-funded Deep Space Exploration Laboratory noted that this achievement has provided China with valuable experience. They also highlighted the necessity of developing technologies for the transfer of extremely low-temperature propellants, which could enhance performance for larger spacecraft and deep-space missions.
