China to start prototype development of new cargo spacecraft in 2026

China's Qingzhou cargo spacecraft has completed multiple key technology verifications and entered integrated testing.

Developed by the Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the vehicle is expected to provide a low-cost solution for transporting supplies to and from China's space station.

After passing its design review in June, the Qingzhou prototype moved into the initial manufacturing phase, with all research and development work progressing smoothly. Full engineering model production is scheduled to begin in early 2026.

The prototype measures roughly 3.3 meters in diameter, weighs 5 tonnes, and can carry up to 1.8 tonnes of cargo to orbit. Its structure combines a sealed module with an unsealed aft section, allowing taikonauts' supplies and precision instruments to be stored safely in the pressurized area. Meanwhile, external payloads and space-exposure experiments can be mounted on the open section to maximize transport efficiency.

As China's space station enters its application and development stage, demand for diverse cargo transportation is rising. The smaller, lower-cost Qingzhou craft addresses these needs with an integrated, flexible, intelligent, and highly adaptable design.

Using a single-module configuration, Qingzhou prioritizes space efficiency and mission economy. Inside, four cargo racks provide 40 storage compartments and a total volume of 27 cubic meters, capable of carrying daily necessities, scientific equipment, and research payloads. The craft also features five 60-liter cold-chain units to store the taikonauts' food and temperature-sensitive biological samples.

Future versions will include an intelligent cargo management system that allows astronauts to locate items quickly via voice interaction, reducing workload and minimizing operational risks.

Designed for two-way logistics, the Qingzhou spacecraft can deliver supplies from Earth to the space station and bring back around 2 tonnes of waste from orbit.