Ambitious Plans to Enhance Space Research and International Cooperation

China is preparing to launch new modules for its Tiangong space station, aiming to expand the station’s capacity for scientific research and bolster international collaboration. This expansion signals a major step forward in China’s efforts to establish itself as a leading player in global space exploration.

According to Wang Jue of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the modules will be launched using the Long March 5B rocket, China’s most powerful launch vehicle. While an official timeline for the launches has not been released, the plan confirms China’s commitment to developing Tiangong beyond its current T-shaped, three-module configuration, constructed between 2021 and 2022.

A New Expansion Module with Enhanced Capabilities

The planned expansion is largely driven by increasing demands for space-based experiments and the need for greater energy resources. A proposed multi-functional expansion module featuring six docking ports is likely to be the first to launch. This module would dock with Tiangong’s core Tianhe module, enabling the attachment of additional modules in the future.

The upgraded configuration would expand scientific capabilities, provide more payload hosting options, and create opportunities for deeper international cooperation, particularly in crewed missions.

International Collaboration Gains Momentum

In a significant development, China announced plans to train Pakistani astronauts for future missions to Tiangong. This would mark the first time international astronauts visit China’s space station. Discussions are also underway with other countries about potential astronaut flights to Tiangong, reflecting a broader effort to make the station a hub for multinational space activity.

Advanced Spacecraft for Future Missions

To support its growing space ambitions, China is developing a new-generation crew spacecraft with two variants: one for low Earth orbit (LEO) and another, called Mengzhou, designed for crewed lunar missions. The partially reusable LEO variant can carry up to seven astronauts or cargo, offering increased flexibility for both scientific and exploratory missions.

The first launch of the new crew spacecraft aboard the Long March 10 rocket is scheduled for 2026, setting the stage for a new era of Chinese spaceflight.

Strengthening China’s Space Presence

The expansion of Tiangong is part of China’s long-term vision to maintain a permanent human presence in low Earth orbit, independent of the International Space Station (ISS). This comes at a time when NASA has proposed budget cuts for ISS operations, casting uncertainty over the station’s future.

Looking ahead, China’s ambitions extend well beyond Earth orbit, with a crewed lunar mission planned before 2030. The combination of station expansion, international partnerships, and lunar aspirations highlights China’s growing role in shaping the future of space exploration.