China aims to launch its first domestically built all-electric satellite around 2020, according to the spacecraft’s deputy chief designer.
Wang Min, an engineer at China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), told state news agency Xinhua that it will…
China aims to launch its first domestically built all-electric satellite around 2020, according to the spacecraft’s deputy chief designer.
Wang Min, an engineer at China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), told state news agency Xinhua that it will provide internet services across the country and surrounding regions.
CAST will first look to launch a hybrid propulsion communications satellite at the end of 2016, and Wang said there are also plans to fit its upcoming space station with an electric propulsion system.
The technology will bring China in line with the US, Russia, Europe and Japan, which have developed electric propulsion to build lightweight spacecraft that are more economical to launch.
Despite all-electrics taking months longer to reach their orbital locations than their counterparts with traditional propellants, they are being increasingly ordered as traction starts to gain in the industry.
Hong Kong’s ABS recently ordered a third all-electric satellite from Boeing, after inaugurating the US manufacturer’s product when it ordered ABS-3A back in 2012.
Earlier this year, fleet operator SES said it had tapped Boeing and Airbus DS to build its second and third all-electrics.
China’s foray into the technology took a significant step in 2012 when it successfully launched Shijian-9, a test satellite that had two experimental electric thrusters.
Wang told Xinhua that electric propulsion will play an important role in the country’s plans for manned deep space exploration.
The news agency said the country’s electric thrusters, which currently generate up to 5 kilowatts, will be capable of 50 kilowatts in five years, bringing it closer to conducting Mars-based experiments.
