The Chinese spacecraft Tianzhou 7 leaves orbit and returns to Earth’s atmosphere
China’s Tianzhou 7 cargo spacecraft has ended its mission after delivering vital supplies to the Tiangong space station. According to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), the spacecraft re-entered Earth’s atmosphere at 8:25 a.m. EST (6:55 p.m. IST) on November 17, marking the completion of its operations. The spacecraft, launched on January 17 aboard a Long March 7 rocket from Wenchang, was designed to support Tiangong’s ongoing operations, including the delivery of food, experiments, materials and propellant.
Mission details and controlled return
A Space.com reportciting CMSA, revealed that Tianzhou 7 was disconnected from Tiangong on November 10 after being loaded with waste from the station. The deorbitation process was carried out in a controlled manner, firing the spacecraft’s engines to ensure descent over the South Pacific, which is often used for spacecraft reentry due to its remoteness. Although CMSA has released images of Tianzhou 7’s atmospheric entry, showing intense flashes caused by heat and friction, specific details of the landing zone remain classified.
Deployment of a Cubesat Pre-Reentry
Ahead of its controlled descent, Tianzhou 7 reportedly released a 6U cubesat called Bayi-08 on November 16. The satellite, developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), carries a medium-resolution Earth observation camera and an optical communications payload. . It is part of a science outreach program aimed at promoting the understanding of space technology.
Operations in Tiangong Ongoing
While Tianzhou 7 completed its mission, operations in Tiangong continue. The report stated that Tianzhou 8 launched on November 15 and carried supplies for the astronauts aboard the station. Preparations are also underway for the Shenzhou 20 mission, scheduled for spring 2025. The payload included lunar soil simulation rocks for experimental purposes and materials to support the Shenzhou.
China’s progress in its space program remains a focal point, with the Tiangong Station playing a crucial role in supporting human spaceflight and long-term research objectives.
