January 23, 2025
Last Saturday, I met a nine-year-old girl at the YWCA swimming pool. She was swimming alone, sharing a lane with me. As we swam, we chatted. When it was time for me to leave, she swam to the edge of the pool to say goodbye, her cheerful wave leaving an equally cheerful impression.
Moments like these remind me of a simple truth I learned long ago: two groups of people most deserve the world's attention—children and the elderly. Both are vulnerable in their own ways, and yet, in moments like this, they remind us of the profound joy found in life’s simple pleasures. Perhaps this was one of those fleeting, meaningful moments—a child savoring a bit of happiness on an ordinary day.
Reflecting on such moments of connection reminds me of another kind of human achievement that brings meaning and pride, albeit on a much grander scale: the advancement of space technology. Earlier this year, on January 6, China achieved a significant milestone with the launch of the Shijian-25 satellite, (实践卫星25号, Shíjiàn Wèixīng Èrshíwǔ Hào).
At precisely 4 a.m., the Shijian-25 satellite was launched into orbit from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center aboard a Long March 3B carrier rocket. The mission was a success, with the satellite smoothly entering its designated orbit. Its mission is to verify critical technologies related to satellite refueling, servicing and repairing station and lifespan extension services—technological advancements that have the potential to reshape the future of space operations.
Why This Matters. The successful launch of Shijian-25 is significant for several reasons:
Pioneering Satellite Sustainability - Shijian-25’s primary mission is to validate technologies for satellite refueling and extending operational life. These innovations can drastically reduce the need for launching replacement satellites, making space activities more cost-effective and sustainable.
A Milestone in China's Space Program - This mission marks the 555th flight of the Long March rocket series, a testament to the reliability and maturity of China's aerospace technology. Such milestones are symbolic of China's growing presence and expertise in space exploration.
Strategic Implications - The ability to refuel satellites mid-mission has both civilian and military applications, from enhancing communications to improving surveillance capabilities. This technology places China at the forefront of advanced satellite servicing and space sustainability efforts.
Addressing Space Debris - With the growing problem of space debris, extending satellite lifespans offers a proactive solution. Satellites that can be refueled or repaired instead of discarded reduce orbital clutter, contributing to global space sustainability efforts.
A Broader Perspective
As a technical achievement, the Shijian-25 mission reflects humanity's ongoing quest to push the boundaries of possibility. By addressing challenges like satellite sustainability and orbital debris, China is contributing to the shared goal of ensuring that space remains a viable domain for future generations.
From the cheerful wave of a child at the edge of a swimming pool to the quiet brilliance of a satellite’s journey into orbit, these moments remind us of our collective capacity to create, connect, and aspire. Whether it’s in the small joys of daily life or the monumental leaps of technological progress, they are all part of the same human story—one of optimism, innovation, and hope.