In a recent commentary published by China Space News, Elon Musk's SpaceX is identified as an "unprecedented challenge" that demands a "deep sense of crisis" from Chinese aerospace workers. The article, published on Friday, emphasizes the need for China to narrow the technology gap and emerge as a leading space power globally by 2045.
The commentary acknowledges that China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the country's main state-owned space contractor, is "obviously lagging behind" SpaceX in various aspects, including development philosophy, research and production models, core rocket technologies, and economic performance.
The article highlights that as the technological gaps with SpaceX continue to widen, every space worker in China should be "soberly aware" of the circumstances, overcome "complacency and blind arrogance," and work harder to catch up.
SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, has been instrumental in revolutionizing the global space industry by cutting launch costs and enhancing the affordability of space flight. Its notable products include the Falcon 9 rocket, the Dragon spacecraft, and ongoing projects like the Starship and Starlink.
Inspired by SpaceX's success, CASC and other Chinese aerospace entities are working on their versions of Starship and Starlink, such as the Long March 9 superheavy rocket and Guo Wang Network.
Despite SpaceX's global success, the commentary highlights the ambitious goals set by Chinese authorities. By 2045, China aims to become a world-leading space power, utilizing innovative technologies to drive overall development in the space sector. The timeline also includes priorities such as landing the first Chinese astronauts on the moon and returning rock samples from Mars, both scheduled for no later than 2030.
As China recognizes the need to compete with SpaceX, the commentary underscores the importance of fostering a community with a shared future for humankind and contributing to the advancement of human civilization through space exploration.
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