The device will consist of several modules that will be launched into orbit separately and assembled in space
HONG KONG /HONG KONG/, August 25. /TASS/. The National Foundation of Natural Sciences of China is considering a project to create an "ultra-large spacecraft extending for kilometers". This was reported by the South China Morning Post newspaper.
"Such a ship would be a key strategic tool for further development of space resources, exploration of the secrets of the Universe and long-term stay in orbit," the publication quotes the text of the project.
It is assumed that the device will consist of several modules that will be launched into orbit separately and assembled in space. Scientists are faced with the task of minimizing the mass of modules, reducing the number of launches and construction costs. In addition, specialists must ensure maximum controllability of the modules to avoid displacement and deformation during the assembly process.
The construction of this spacecraft is one of 10 projects proposed for funding by the National Foundation for Natural Sciences this month. It is assumed that five of them will be selected for further development. If approved, 15 million yuan ($2.3 million) will be allocated for the development of the project.
China is actively developing its national space program. On June 17, the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft with three cosmonauts on board successfully docked with the PRC orbital station under construction. The Chinese station has three docking nodes and a gateway for entering space. At the current stage, the station consists of three elements: the base module "Tianhe", the cargo ship "Tianzhou-2" and "Shenzhou-12". It is expected that the station will be operational in 2022 and, as promised by the Chinese authorities, will be available for international projects.
