Capability: Cargo Earth Orbit Logistics
Maiden Flight: 2017-04-20
Flight Life: 180 days in orbit
Payload Capacity: 6500
Second operational Tianzhou spacecraft. First spacecraft to dock with the Chinese Space Station.
History
The Tianzhou is a Chinese automated cargo spacecraft that was first launched on April 20, 2017 to resupply Tiangong-1. It demonstrated autonomous propellant transfer in orbit.
Autonomous cargo spacecraft used to resupply the Chinese Space Station.
Agency
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation
Type: Government
The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is the main contractor for the Chinese space program. It is state-owned and has a number of subordinate entities which design, develop and manufacture a range of spacecraft, launch vehicles, strategic and tactical missile systems, and ground equipment. It was officially established in July 1999 as part of a Chinese government reform drive, having previously been one part of the former China Aerospace Corporation. Various incarnations of the program date back to 1956.
