China's super-secret space plane spotted above Europe

A recent sighting of China's secretive Shenlong space plane was captured by satellite tracker Felix Schöfbänker over Austria on July 30, 2024. This experimental, reusable space plane has been largely unverified publicly, but Schöfbänker's images suggest it may feature solar panels on its underside, a detail not previously documented. The Shenlong is designed for long-duration, uncrewed missions in orbit, having completed at least two confirmed missions since 2020, including one lasting 276 days. Its current mission began on December 14, 2023, and it has since deployed at least seven unidentified objects into orbit. Schöfbänker utilized a 14-inch telescope to track the plane, enhancing the images to reveal potential new features. While the presence of solar panels is speculative, it indicates the vehicle's capability for sustained power generation. The Shenlong's orbit has recently lowered to approximately 217 miles above Earth, and it is estimated to be around 30 feet in length. This space plane is part of a broader context of experimental vehicles, including the U.S. Space Force's X-37B, which has also been conducting secret missions in orbit.

- China's Shenlong space plane was spotted over Austria, suggesting new features.

- The vehicle may have solar panels, enhancing its power capabilities.

- Shenlong has completed multiple missions since 2020, including a 276-day orbit.

- The current mission began on December 14, 2023, with several objects deployed.

- The Shenlong is part of a wider array of experimental space vehicles, including the U.S. X-37B.