Airshow China 2024: Unveiling China’s Latest Space Innovations

The 15th edition of Airshow China recently concluded in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, from November 12 to 17, 2024. This biennial event, officially known as the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition, is recognized as China’s premier platform for showcasing its latest advancements in the aerospace sector.

Airshow China in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province, Credits: Xinhua — *Airshow China in Zhuhai, south China’s Guangdong Province. Credits: Xinhua*

China’s rapid growth in the space industry

In recent years, China has witnessed substantial growth in its space sector, characterized by heightened investments and the rise of many innovative companies and startups. This progress has been propelled by both private initiatives and government programs, with the goal of positioning China as a leader in space exploration and technology.

Airshow China serves as a crucial platform for these entities, providing opportunities to showcase advancements and engage in business-to-business meetings focused on securing funding and forming strategic partnerships for new technology development.

Haoloong-1: China’s first uncrewed spaceplane

One of the key innovations presented at Airshow China 2024 was the Haoloong-1, also known as “Sky Dragon”. This uncrewed spaceplane, developed by AVIC, reflects China’s growing focus on reusable space technologies. Thanks to advanced thermal protection materials, it is designed to transport cargo to the Chinese space station using a rocket for launch and landing like a glider.

The model of the cargo space shuttle "Haolong" presented at the air show. Credits: AVIC — *The model of the cargo space shuttle “Haolong” presented at the air show. Credits: AVIC*

Haoloong-1 has already secured a contract from the China Manned Space Agency to conduct engineering test flights, marking an important step toward its future deployment.

Innovations in chinese rocket recovery

At Airshow China 2024, significant advancements in rocket recovery and reuse technologies were showcased. The Long March 9, developed by CASC, features a first stage equipped with grid fins for controlled reentry. The Long March 10, intended for lunar missions, incorporates reusable components to reduce costs and increase launch frequency.

Private companies, such as LandSpace with its methane-powered Zhuque-2 rocket, are also working to integrate reusability features into future versions of their launch vehicles. These developments highlight China’s commitment to more efficient and economical launch technologies.

Lunar program and future developments

In addition to the innovations previously mentioned, Airshow China 2024 showcased a wide array of advanced technologies and space vehicles. Notably, Chinese government agencies provided significant updates on their lunar program, detailing upcoming missions and technological advancements to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon.

*Visitors exploring lunar exploration models at the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory exhibit during Airshow China 2024. Credits: DSEL*

This reflects China’s growing commitment to space exploration, further evidenced by the emergence of new companies and increased investments in the sector. The expanding interest and participation in space-related endeavors underscore China’s ambition to become a leading force in the global aerospace industry.

^{*Cover image credits: CCTV}