China may have taken a major step in space technology after two of its satellites appeared to dock more than 20,000 miles above Earth. The move is believed to be the country’s first attempt at satellite refueling in geosynchronous orbit. Shijian-21 and Shijian-25, the two satellites involved, were tracked as they moved closer before merging visually, according to Ars Technica.
Though Chinese authorities have not confirmed the operation, satellite watchers and analysts suggest the maneuver could mark a new chapter in orbital reuse. It also hints at China’s growing ability to manipulate or disable other satellites in space, a concern for global security observers.
Geosynchronous orbit allows satellites to stay in sync with Earth’s rotation, making them valuable for both military and commercial use. They’re often used to monitor missile threats and support global communication.
Following the docking, two U.S. Space Force inspector satellites reportedly shifted positions to monitor the Chinese spacecraft. This suggests American officials are paying close attention to the development.
While China pushes forward, the U.S. Space Force is also preparing for its first orbital refueling mission. Scheduled for next summer, this mission aims to extend the life of American military satellites, which currently face limitations due to fuel capacity.
U.S. Space Force General Chance Saltzman previously warned that China’s rapid progress in space could overtake U.S. dominance. He highlighted China’s investments in space-based and ground-based weapons capable of disabling enemy satellites, including jammers, direct energy attacks, and physical strikes.
China has also increased its defense budget by 7% this year, further boosting fears over its anti-satellite capabilities. These include claims of directed energy weapons powerful enough to interfere with satellite operations from Earth.
NASA and the U.S. Space Force have not commented publicly on the latest docking maneuver.
