Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
Beijing, December 11 (Xinhua) — Testing of several key technologies on China's Qingzhou (or "Light Boat") cargo spacecraft, a new generation of cargo spacecraft, has been completed. It is expected to be ready for its maiden flight as early as next year, according to its developer, the Innovation Academy of Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IAMCAS).
The Qingzhou is designed as a compact cargo ship with an emphasis on low cost, high reliability, high adaptability and high intelligence, which will have impressive capabilities.
The spacecraft weighs approximately 5 tons, the cargo module's loading volume is 9 cubic meters, and the total internal volume is 27 cubic meters. The cargo module is equipped with a four-tiered rack system with 40 standard cells, allowing for flexible placement of payloads, ranging from crew supplies to scientific equipment. This design allows for the diverse logistical needs of the space station.
The intelligent onboard control system provides intelligent identification, tracking, and management of cargo. Astronauts will be able to quickly locate items using voice commands, significantly increasing search efficiency and reducing workload in orbit.
To store special supplies, the spacecraft is equipped with modular "space refrigerators"—containers with a 60-liter cold chain each. They can be flexibly grouped as needed, up to a maximum capacity of 300 liters. Precise temperature control enables the stable transportation of fresh food.
The Qingzhou has an integrated single-module design, which not only reduces its overall size and improves space utilization, but also ensures compatibility with reusable launch vehicles for rapid launch.
The Qingzhou launch vehicle is also designed so that the spacecraft and rocket form a compact integrated system. With the start of mass production and deeper commercial cooperation, it's possible the cost of delivering cargo into space, currently around 100,000 yuan (US$14,134) per kilogram, will decrease. -0-
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