🚀 On November 5, 2025, engineers spotted a tiny crack in one of the windows on China's Shenzhou-20 spacecraft while it was orbiting Earth. Though it looked minor, even a tiny nick can pose a big safety risk in space.
In a recent video, a Chinese space expert broke down how millimeter-sized debris – think grain-of-rice level – zipping at high speeds can punch holes and stress spacecraft materials. Here's the lowdown:
Why Tiny Debris Packs a Punch 🌠
- High-Speed Impact: Objects in low Earth orbit travel around 28,000 km/h. At that speed, a 1 mm fragment hits like a bullet.
- Material Vulnerability: Spacecraft windows use layered glass and plastic to stay strong. A small crack can compromise cabin pressure and transparency.
How Shenzhou-22 Saved the Day 🛡️
After the crack was spotted, Shenzhou-22 docked with the station in late November, bringing:
- Spare window panels
- Protective film and sealant
- Repair tools and fresh supplies
With these essentials, the crew can patch the crack and boost the station's shield against future hits.
Why It Matters to Our Region
As South and Southeast Asia step up their space game—from Indian satellite startups to Malaysian research hubs—understanding orbital risks is key. Just like you protect your phone with a screen guard, spacecraft need their own cosmic armor.
Stay curious and keep looking up—who knows what the next space leap will bring! ✨
Reference(s):
Chinese expert explains in-orbit emergency faced by Shenzhou-20
cgtn.com
