China's Shenlong Space Plane Spotted with Module

A US military intelligence agency has released a rare photograph of China's Shenlong space plane. The image, taken in May 2024, shows the space plane attached to another spacecraft in orbit. The photo reveals an open payload bay and another satellite with extended solar panels. However, the purpose of the connection between the two spacecraft remains unknown.

The image was made public in October 2026. It provides a rare glimpse into China's secretive space program.

The release of the image is significant, but the details of the space plane's mission and the attachment's purpose are not clear.