China’s main space contractor is aiming to carry out more than 40 launches in 2021, including lunar, interplanetary and space infrastructure missions. This is an increase from 34 launches last year. Globally, a total of 1,277 spacecraft were sent into space in 2020, reaching a record high, according to a document on China’s aerospace missions published on Feb. 22.
Of the 114 space missions carried out worldwide, the United States led the world with 44, followed by China with 39 launches carrying 89 spacecraft. China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) announced plans for more than 40 space launches for the year ahead, carrying more than 80 spacecraft. “The manned space station project has entered the stage of verification and the construction of key technologies. After Tianwen-1’s arrival on Mars, it will carry out China’s first orbiting, landing and inspection of Mars,” said Lin Yiming, head of the Aerospace Department of CASC.
