Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
China's Tiangong space station, while not explicitly designed for orbital fabrication, does incorporate technologies and capabilities that could be leveraged for future in-orbit manufacturing or assembly. The station's modular design, robotic arm, and focus on on-orbit verification of technologies like expandable structures and inflatable modules suggest a direction towards more advanced on-orbit capabilities.
Here's a more detailed look:
Modular Design:
Tiangong's T-shaped structure, composed of the Tianhe core module and the Wentian and Mengtian experiment modules, allows for expansion and potential integration of additional modules in the future.
Robotic Arm:
The station features a robotic arm, which can be used for various tasks, including supporting experiments outside the station and potentially assisting in the assembly or maintenance of other structures.
On-orbit Verification:
Tiangong is also being used to test and verify technologies for expandable and inflatable structures, which could be crucial for building larger structures in orbit.
Future Potential:
While not a primary focus yet, the technologies being developed and tested on Tiangong could pave the way for future in-orbit manufacturing and assembly capabilities, potentially including the construction of larger space habitats or other infrastructure.
International Cooperation:
China has expressed interest in international collaboration on Tiangong, which could involve joint projects related to in-orbit manufacturing or assembly if such capabilities are developed.
In summary, while not the primary function of the current Tiangong station, China's space program is developing key technologies and capabilities that could support future orbital fabrication and assembly projects.