The utilization of China’s Tiangong space station and the involvement of civilian astronauts and non-state-owned enterprise (SOE) companies are two emerging trends that may have a significant impact on how China’s space Program is perceived internationally. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has expressed its intention to include civilians in the Chinese Space Station (CSS) since 2016.

Gui Haichao, a civilian astronaut, recently flew to the CSS aboard Shenzhou-16, becoming the first of the civilians selected in China’s astronaut program to reach orbit. This decision is expected to improve China’s standing in its joint program with the United Nations and possibly with existing astronaut programs. This may also lead to the reassessment of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) reluctance to participate in astronaut training exchanges with China and its plan to send European astronauts to Tiangong in the future.

China began the construction of the CSS in 2021 and completed the three-module, T-shaped orbital outpost by the end of 2022. The China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) is now planning to launch an extension module and select the first international astronauts to visit Tiangong.

The commercialization efforts surrounding China’s space station, including the call for commercial resupply proposals, are another factor that may influence perceptions and approaches towards China’s space program. The CMSEO’s solicitation for non-SOE proposals for CSS resupply vehicles in May 2023 will have a direct impact on the long-term development of China’s space program and how it is viewed globally.

The next Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030) in China could reveal the types of companies competing for CSS contracts, potentially bringing more transparency and allowing for better outside assessments. However, the independence of Chinese commercial companies from state-owned entities and PLA influence over the space sector will also be a significant factor to consider.

Overall, these evolving trends in China’s space program may shape its international image and position Tiangong as a competitor to commercial ventures engaged in the International Space Station (ISS). Additionally, both China and the United States are seeking partners and support for their respective lunar programs, demonstrating a global race for space exploration and collaboration.

Sources:
– Department of the Air Force China Aerospace Studies Institute report, Aug. 28
– European Space Agency Director General Josef Aschbacher’s statement, earlier this year, SpaceNews

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