China tests in-orbit inflatable capsule aboard China's Shijian-19 satellite

The introduction of the capsule, which is a multi-functional container with a flexible shell, notes that it compresses and folds at launch, and then unfolds and inflates after entering orbit.

The capsule is lightweight and has high folding efficiency, making it a promising solution for creating large pressurised containers in space.

During the verification test, environmental tests of the launch process were conducted and the capsule successfully performed a number of flight operations, including unlocking, inflating, unfolding and pressurisation.

Indications such as the capsule's payload capacity, degree of pressurisation and internal temperature met specifications. This is reported by CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

Advances in inflatable capsule technology will provide significant support for China's major space projects, including space station construction and manned lunar missions.