China enters new era of space technology

In its drive for modernization, China has focused on science and technology. Technological advancement is key in developing the economy, industry, defense, agriculture and health. The Chinese government has prioritized science, technology and innovation in all sectors. R&D organizations and universities are equipped with the latest laboratories and generous funding, and staffed with quality human resources.

Space technology is one of the priorities in China. The successful launch of new large carrier rocket Long March 5B marks a good beginning for China's space station program. The powerful rocket lifted off at 6 pm Beijing time from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center on Hainan Island on Tuesday. About eight minutes after the launch, the rocket and capsule separated. Assuming the rest of the crew capsule's flight goes smoothly, today's success will open the door to a slate of 11 launches designed to facilitate space station construction. The 5B's maiden flight paves the way for a series of firsts over the next year, including the launch of an orbiter and rover to Mars, a lunar sample return mission, and the core of a permanent space station.

The Long March 5B is capable of launching approximately 25,000 kilograms (55,116 pounds) of payload into low Earth orbit. This is roughly the equivalent of the payload capacity of United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy rocket. It is a new six-seat crew spacecraft, which will eventually replace the three-seat Shenzhou vehicle currently in use. The larger spaceship will be used in Earth orbit and for lunar missions. It will launch the core Tianhe module of China's first permanent space station during the second quarter of 2021. Although this flight is a crewless test mission for that vehicle, particularly for collecting data on the performance of its heat shield and parachutes, it should be able to carry six or seven astronauts at a time in future.

It is one of the big achievements for China after its recovery from COVID-19. The smooth launch of Long March 5B is the result of hard work by scientists, engineers and policymakers. All who are involved in this project in any manner deserve appreciation. I personally congratulate them. It is really a breakthrough and paves the way for further explorations. China has surpassed many other countries in space technology.

China's achievements will benefit not only China but also other nations too. It will be good news for the international community and especially those working in the space technology sector. China believes in sharing its experience with all friendly countries.

Pakistan enjoys exemplary relations with China and our cooperation covers all dimensions, including space technology. China has been generously providing educational facilities to Pakistani students and scientists. Pakistan was able to launch its own satellite, with Chinese collaboration. Pakistan is the beneficiary of Chinese achievements.

With the successful launch of Long March 5B, China has entered the new era. China is already ahead of many countries in myriad technologies such as high-speed trains, 5G, and those for construction and infrastructure. China will lead the world in space technology too.

The people of Pakistan, especially the scientific community, salute and congratulate the government and people of China on their marvelous achievement, and wish more success in the days to come.

Zamir Ahmed Awan is a non-resident fellow at the Center for China and Globalization.

The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and do not represent the views of China Daily and China Daily website.