China has pursuits in both civilian and military space technology. The
Chinese National Space
Administration coordinates China's activities with other national space
programs, while the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation is the
primary entity responsible for China's domestic space needs, including the
development of launch vehicles and satellites and the conduct of
launches.[1,2] China is one of three nations to have achieved success in
recovering satellites and executing a manned space mission.[3,4]
China's goals for the first decade of
the 21st century include: developing an earth observation system, a satellite
navigation and positioning system, an independent telecommunications satellite
network, and a complete satellite remote-sensing application system; upgrading the
current capability of its Long March launch vehicles; and establishing a
research, development, and testing system for its manned space program.[5]
[1] "China National Space Administration (CNSA)," Nuclear Threat Initiative
website, http://www.nti.org/db/china/cnsa.htm.
[2] "China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASTC)," Nuclear Threat
Initiative website,
http://www.nti.org/db/china/castc.htm.
[3] "Satellite Launch Centers," China.org website,
http://www.china.org.cn/english/SPORT-c/77178.htm.
[4] "White Paper Hails China's Achievements in Space Program," Xinhua,
November 22, 2000, FBIS Document CPP20001122000026.
[5] China's Space Activities
(White Paper), (Beijing: The State Council Information Office, P.R.C.,
November 2000). {Updated 10/20/2005}
