Recoverable and returnable satellites called FSW developed by China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and launched since 1975. Generation 5 (FSW-5) is planned to be reusable and commercial applications.
Created: 2019-06-12
Updated: 2023-12-28
Product/Service - FSW
- Classification
- Cargo Transportation & Landers
- Category
- Microgravity Flight Service (LEO)
Microgravity Flight Service (Reusable Satellite)
Reusable Satellite
Recoverable Satellite
Returnable Satellite
- Fields
- Space Capsule
Reusable
- Status
- Development
- First launch
- 2024
FSW-1
Launched from 1975 to 1992. Height ~3m and weight ~2000 kg.
FSW-2
Launched from 1993 to 1996. Height ~4m and weight ~3000 kg.
FSW-3
Launched from 2003 to 2005. Height ~5m and weight ~3500 kg.
FSW-4
Launched from 2006 to 2016. Height ~5m and weight ~3500 kg. The missions should include SJ 8 (Shijian 8) launched in 2006 and SJ 10 (Shijian 10) launched in 2016.
FSW-5
Reusable biological commercial satellite to carry out space-borne and space biology experiments.
Will fly on Shijian 19 mission but it has been delayed since 2019 as of early 2023.
Status Comment / Notes
While launched since 1975, the Status of "Development" and launch of "2023" applies to the fifth generation reusable capsule (FSW-5), which should also have commercial applications. It does not seem to have launched yet as of late 2023.
Sources
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