[FPSPACE] Tiangong 1 space station model

[E.P. Grondine]

Hi and Hello everyone - 

Re: the new Tiangong images, one of the interesting things is the white thermal/ debris impact blanket surrounding the core. If this is similar to US blankets, would that not mean that China is manufacturing Kevlar or some other robust fiber? Anyone have any info on hand on US thermal and small debris impact blankets?
Insulation material?

The second item is the docking control systems. The new model shows the familiar 
X alignment marker, while the image David posted shows either a laser or radar dashed line between the Shenzhou and Tiangong at the top - a separate system.

Third, we are left wondering if the model represents the core (Tiangong 1?) mated with another modulre (Tiangong 2?), or if the whole thing is Tiangong 1. At Eight tons mass, that may indicate one CZ 2h launch with LOX\kerosene engines, instead of 2 CZ 2-F hypergolic launches. 

Four, while its easy to say "station" for the general reader, this is China's experimental laboratory, not their station with fuel transfer capabilites, which is scheduled for 2017 or so.

Five, the small dish antenna points up, most likely to a data relay satellite?

Six, anyone want to comment on the dock itself? 

Seven, launch date is back to 2010.

Eight, note the porthole on the TG.

E.P. Grondine
Man and Impact in the Americas

PS - I see where the US pad decision does not need to be made until March, so the Ares 1/ Ares 5 or Direct debate may go on for a while, while the stimulus package is being put in place. The arms talks appear to be scheduled for April, much in line with my earlier guess. But these are going to have to be expanded beyond simply Russia and the US to include at least China and the EU, and perhaps other parties in some other ways.

The stimulus package is scheduled for enactment by February 16.



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