China Achieves Record 92 Space Launches in 2025, Eyes Ambitious New Goals
China concluded 2025 with a record-breaking 92 space launches, marking a milestone year for its expanding space programme. The China National Space Administration confirmed that major strides were achieved in manned missions, deep space exploration and commercial launches, setting the stage for an even more ambitious decade ahead.
Breakthroughs in Manned Space Missions
Zhu Haiyang, an engineer with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, announced that more than 300 satellites were successfully placed into orbit during 2025. He described the progress as a “qualitative leap” in both the number of launches and the volume of payloads deployed.
The Shenzhou-20 mission set a new national record when its crew spent 204 days in orbit, the longest single mission in China’s manned space history. Soon after, the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft achieved the fastest rendezvous and docking ever recorded for the Shenzhou series, completing the operation in just three and a half hours.
When an unexpected technical issue arose with Shenzhou-20, China swiftly implemented emergency measures. Within 16 days, engineers executed a sequence of precise manoeuvres, including the launch of the Shenzhou-22 backup craft. The rapid and coordinated response was hailed as a “textbook model” of crisis management within the global space community.
Expanding Horizons in Deep Space Exploration
In deep space research, the Tianwen-2 probe began its mission as China’s first asteroid exploration and sample-return project. This marked another significant advancement in the nation’s long-term strategy to explore the solar system and develop interplanetary technologies.
Meanwhile, a surge in commercial rocket launches highlighted the growing role of private enterprise in China’s space sector. Multiple new rocket models entered operation, adding vitality and competition to the country’s rapidly expanding commercial launch market.
Preparing for the Next Five-Year Plan
As China begins the first year of its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), its space ambitions continue to rise. The new blueprint includes preparations for future lunar missions, with the Chang’e-7 probe scheduled to explore the Moon’s south pole in search of water ice. The coming years will also see the testing of advanced rocket technologies, including recovery and reusability systems designed to enhance cost efficiency and sustainability in future launches.
with inputs from Reuters
