Developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the Haolong Space Shuttle features a winged, aerodynamic design with a large wingspan and high lift-to-drag ratio. This configuration allows it to be launched into orbit by a rocket and land horizontally on an airport runway, similar to an airplane.
Design and Construction
The Haolong shuttle focuses on efficient, cost-effective resupply missions while showcasing advancements in reusable space transportation technology.
Measuring approximately 10 meters in length and 8 meters in width, Haolong is lighter than the current Tianzhou cargo spacecraft, enhancing its efficiency for space station resupply missions. After completing its cargo transport tasks, Haolong can autonomously deorbit, reenter Earth’s atmosphere, and land horizontally. Following inspection and maintenance, it is designed to be reused for subsequent missions, thereby reducing the cost of cargo transportation to the space station.
Launch and Deployment
The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) 🔗 has awarded Haolong a contract for the engineering flight verification phase, indicating significant progress toward its operational deployment.
This development is part of China’s broader efforts to establish a safe, reliable, and efficient cargo transportation system between Earth and its space station, supporting the long-term operation and expansion of Tiangong.
Technical Specifications
Here are some technical specs for the Chinese Haolong space shuttle based on available information:
- Length: Approximately 10 meters
- Wingspan: Around 8 meters
- Weight: Lighter than China’s current Tianzhou cargo spacecraft (specific mass not disclosed)
- Launch Method: Rocket-assisted (launched vertically)
- Landing Method: Horizontal runway landing, like an airplane
- Primary Role: Cargo transport to and from the Tiangong space station
- Reusability: Designed for multiple missions after inspection and maintenance
- Lift-to-Drag Ratio: High, optimizing aerodynamic efficiency for atmospheric reentry
