China’s satellite engine smashes record, leaves US rival far behind

AI Summary

China tested a satellite engine with a record-breaking operating life, significantly outperforming its US counterparts. Developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology in Xian, the engine is a key advancement for faster and more reliable satellite orbit raising, supporting communications, military, and deep-space missions.

China has tested a satellite engine with a record-breaking operating life, a key technology that could help propel the world’s largest communications, military and deep-space spacecraft into their intended orbits faster and more reliably. The upgraded engine, developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology in Xian, can produce 750 newtons of thrust, according to Chinese media reports. The Chinese engine fired for 11,617 seconds – 3.2 hours – across five orbit-raising manoeuvres...