China’s Shijian satellites split after secret on-orbit refueling test

China’s experimental Shijian-21 and Shijian-25 satellites recently conducted a historic on-orbit refueling test in geosynchronous orbit (GEO), marking a potential strategic milestone. The two satellites, which docked around late June 2023 after several rendezvous and proximity operations, have now separated at an altitude of approximately 22,236 miles (35,786 km) above Earth’s equator. This maneuver likely signifies the completion of a successful refueling operation, although official confirmation from Chinese authorities remains absent. The Shijian-25 satellite, launched in January 2023, was confirmed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology to focus on testing on-orbit refueling and mission extension technologies in GEO. The significance of this test lies in its dual-use potential: on-orbit refueling is critical for future deep-space exploration missions, enabling spacecraft to extend their operational lifespans and travel farther, such as missions to the Moon and beyond. Militarily,