Technology · India Bureau
US releases rare image of China's secretive Shenlong space plane in orbit
A US military intelligence agency has disclosed a photograph of China's classified Shenlong space plane docked to another spacecraft, marking a rare glimpse into Beijing's secretive space operations. The image, captured in May 2024, shows the reusable spaceplane with its payload bay open and connected to a satellite equipped with solar panels.
LSN India ·
The United States National Reconnaissance Office released the photograph in October 2026, providing one of the clearest views yet of China's mysterious space plane program. The image shows the Shenlong spacecraft attached to another orbital vehicle, with its cargo bay visibly open to space. A satellite with extended solar arrays appears to be either docked to or in proximity with the configuration.
China's Shenlong space plane, whose name translates to "Divine Dragon," represents a significant component of Beijing's advanced space capabilities. The reusable spacecraft operates in similar fashion to America's former Space Shuttle program and its current X-37B orbital test vehicle, enabling China to conduct missions beyond the reach of conventional satellites.
The specific purpose of the docking maneuver captured in the May 2024 photograph remains unclear. US analysts have not disclosed whether the Shenlong was retrieving, deploying, or servicing the connected spacecraft. The payload bay's open configuration suggests the vehicle was engaged in cargo operations, though the exact nature of the mission continues to be assessed.
The disclosure of the satellite imagery underscores the growing sophistication of China's space infrastructure and reflects intensifying competition in orbital operations among major spacefaring nations. The revelation also highlights the expanding role of space-based surveillance in monitoring rival nations' aerospace development.