China Successfully Completes World’s First On-Orbit Test of 400V Space Power System on Tianzhou-10

August 2, 2026

Global Times China

Overview

China successfully completed all on-orbit tests of its new-generation space power system aboard the Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft, marking the world’s first application of a 400V bus power system in orbit. This technology will serve as a foundational energy platform for major aerospace endeavors, including manned lunar exploration, efficiently supplying sustainable power to lunar probes, landers, and rovers. Utilizing Silicon Carbide (SiC) components, the system enhances energy conversion efficiency, achieving significant miniaturization and weight reduction, thereby freeing up valuable payload space.

In Depth

Key Findings

China announced the successful completion of all on-orbit tests for its new-generation space power system aboard the Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft. This system is the first in the world to implement a 400V bus power system in orbit, representing a groundbreaking achievement that strengthens the power infrastructure for future large-scale space missions, including manned lunar exploration.

Technical Details

The space power system tested employs a high-voltage bus (400V), which reduces power transmission losses and significantly improves efficiency compared to existing low-voltage systems. This high-voltage architecture is particularly advantageous for large space stations or lunar bases requiring substantial power delivery over long distances. The system design incorporates Silicon Carbide (SiC) components, known for their resilience to high temperatures and radiation. This not only enhances energy conversion efficiency but also dramatically reduces the overall mass and volume of the power system. For instance, the system achieved approximately 30% miniaturization and weight reduction compared to conventional technologies for the same power supply capacity, allowing for increased spacecraft payload. The series of tests on Tianzhou-10 confirmed the proper functioning of key features such as power generation, storage, distribution, and load response, demonstrating the system’s stability and reliability.

Background & Context

As space exploration evolves, the demand for power on spacecraft and lunar bases is constantly increasing. Traditional power systems are becoming inadequate for long-duration manned missions and large probes carrying numerous scientific instruments. Developing highly efficient and reliable power systems is one of the most critical challenges for expanding the scope and sustainability of space exploration. China, aiming to establish itself as a leading space power, is actively pursuing its own space station construction and lunar/Mars exploration programs. The success of this power system is a significant technological milestone towards achieving those goals.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The success of the 400V space power system will have a profound impact on China’s future space development plans. This technology is slated for direct application in future manned lunar landers, lunar rovers, and the construction of lunar bases, ensuring long-term power supply. It is also expected to be utilized as a power infrastructure for large commercial satellites and space stations in Earth orbit, potentially supporting new commercial activities such as space-based AI data centers and in-orbit manufacturing. China is anticipated to leverage this technology as a foundation for planning more ambitious and complex space missions, further solidifying its presence in the global space race.

Source: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202607/1366973.shtml

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