At a time when the United States has officially labelled China its primary rival, the Asian power has made a major leap forward in space technology. Two Chinese satellites recently demonstrated groundbreaking capabilities in orbit—advances that could give Beijing a strategic edge in the race for space dominance.
Roughly 36,000 kilometres above Earth, the Chinese satellites Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 spent several months docked together. Then, just a few days ago, they separated—quietly, without any official announcement from Beijing. The manoeuvre sparked intrigue worldwide, suggesting a possible milestone in their missions.
Rare manoeuvres in geostationary orbit
In July 2025, the two satellites were used to carry out a series of intricate approach and docking operations in geostationary orbit, followed by weeks of tests on refuelling technology. Monitored closely by U.S. satellites and Earth-based tracking systems, the spacecraft became visually indistinguishable at one point—solid proof that docking had indeed occurred.
A potential revolution in satellite maintenance
This experiment could mark the world’s first successful attempt at in-orbit refuelling and maintenance in geostationary space. The mission’s goal was to explore technologies that can extend satellite lifespans, cut down on debris, and resupply orbiting vehicles.
While China has been tight-lipped about the operation, the implications are clear. Mastering orbital refuelling could be crucial for future missions to Mars or the Moon, particularly under mission architectures similar to SpaceX’s Starship or Blue Origin’s Blue Moon.
The impact on future space operations
If these trials prove successful, they may usher in a new era of sustainability and efficiency for orbital systems. In-orbit refuelling could not only extend satellites’ operational lives but also enhance their performance by supplying critical resources like fuel, power, and fluids.
Such progress could reshape how space agencies—and private companies—think about spacecraft longevity, exploration, and even manned flight.
A new paradigm for China’s space ambitions
Unlike low Earth orbit, where astronauts can occasionally intervene, geostationary orbit relies entirely on automation and robotics. If China’s latest tests are indeed successful, it could position itself as a world leader in space-support technology.
Beyond the technical achievement, this shift could have far-reaching effects on global security, economics, and international collaboration.
The implications of these orbital advances could transform the very nature of space operations—marking the dawn of a new era in exploration.
Rémy Decourt
Journalist
Born shortly after Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the Moon in 1969, my journey into space exploration has been entirely self-taught. A military stay in Mururoa sparked my formal education in space sciences, and early sky-watching experiences in an astronomy club ignited my passion. I founded flashespace.com, transitioning from sky observation to a deep interest in space missions, satellites, and human and robotic exploration. Since 2010, I’ve been part of Futura’s editorial team, covering space news and working as a freelance writer with extensive international field experience in space-related sites.