Cheng Lei

Person

Last mentioned: Mar 20, 2026

Timeline

Mar 16, 2026
Hukeda-2 Launch

Commercial servicing test satellite lifts off from Jiuquan.
2026
Docking Trials

Validation of approach and identification using the flexible robotic arm.
2026
De-orbiting Test

Deployment of the 2.5m inflatable sphere to test atmospheric drag enhancement.
Q4 2025
Shijian Tests

China conducts secretive high-orbit satellite-to-satellite refueling tests.

Stories mentioning Cheng Lei 1

China Tests Bio-Inspired 'Octopus' Robotic Arm for In-Orbit Satellite Servicing

China has launched Hukeda-2, its first commercial test satellite featuring a flexible, bio-inspired robotic arm designed for docking and refueling. The mission also evaluates an inflatable drag sail to accelerate the de-orbiting of defunct satellites, addressing the critical challenge of orbital debris management.

Mar 20, 2026 2 sources