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China's space programme
ChinaDiplomacy

China asks US to stop Elon Musk’s satellites approaching its space station

  • SpaceX’s Starlink satellites have twice approached the Tiangong in orbit, prompting avoidance manoeuvres
  • Chinese side has complained to UN, while SpaceX says its satellites are equipped to avoid collisions

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A trail from a group of Starlink satellites, which have been accused of approaching China’s space station. Photo: AFP
Zhao Ziwen
China’s foreign ministry has urged the United States to prevent its satellites approaching the Chinese space station Tiangong again, following two close encounters.
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“The United States should take immediate measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents, and adopt a responsible attitude to safeguard the lives of astronauts in orbit and the safe and stable operation of space facilities,” foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Tuesday.

Elon Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX) Starlink satellites twice approached the Tiangong in orbit, in July and October, forcing it into avoidance manoeuvres.

The Chinese delegation to the United Nations sent a diplomatic note to the UN secretary general this month to complain of the close encounters with SpaceX Starlink satellites, citing the Outer Space Treaty.

01:19

SpaceX launches Falcon 9 rocket with 60 Starlink satellites

SpaceX launches Falcon 9 rocket with 60 Starlink satellites

“Bear international responsibility for national activities in outer space … whether such activities are carried on by governmental agencies or by non-governmental entities,” China said in the note.

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