太空“快递小哥”轻舟亮相，将于今年首飞

Core Viewpoint - The 2025 China Space Day Science Popularization Exhibition has officially opened in Shanghai, showcasing the debut of the "Light Boat" cargo spacecraft, which is set for its first flight this year [1][3]. Group 1: Light Boat Cargo Spacecraft Overview - The Light Boat cargo spacecraft is a crucial component of China's space station logistics system, characterized by moderate capacity, rapid flexibility, and outstanding efficiency [3]. - The spacecraft weighs approximately 5 tons, with an upward capacity exceeding 1.8 tons and a downward capacity of 2 tons. Its loading volume is about 9 cubic meters, and the cargo bay has a volume of 27 cubic meters, capable of carrying supplies for astronauts, scientific equipment, and payloads [3]. - The spacecraft features a four-layer cargo rack system with 40 cargo slots, including reserved interfaces for special cargo needs, meeting upward transport requirements [3]. Group 2: Technological Innovations and Collaborations - The Chinese Academy of Sciences' Micro-Satellite Innovation Research Institute, responsible for the development of the Light Boat, aims to drive innovation in modular spacecraft and rapid response technologies [6]. - The institute has previously developed complex projects such as the Beidou navigation satellite and dark matter particle detection satellite, providing a solid technical foundation for the Light Boat's electronics, attitude control, structural thermal design, and mission planning [6]. - In collaboration with the rocket development entity, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the institute has conducted integrated verification for the spacecraft and rocket, optimizing launch processes and simplifying testing to reduce logistics costs and enhance efficiency for the space station [8]. Group 3: Future Prospects - The first flight of the Light Boat cargo spacecraft is planned for next year, which will enhance the safety and reliability of material supply for the space station, particularly in heterogeneous backup capabilities, ensuring stable and reliable operation in orbit [8].