Technological first in orbit - China achieves laser cutting in space

China has tested a laser-cutting technology in orbit, reportedly achieving a world first.

TodayPress TV reports that the information was published by the “South China Morning Post”.

Chinese researchers remotely operated a laser device installed on the exterior of the Tiangong space station to make millimetre-scale cuts in orbit.

The system’s multi-axis positioning mechanism and advanced imaging technology enable it to identify, position and cut materials with micrometre-level precision.

The system can also collect waste materials and process them for potential reuse. Automated repair operations could help extend the service life of the Tiangong station.

Despite the significant challenges of operating in the extreme conditions of space, the technology maintains millimetre-level positioning and micrometre-level cutting precision.

The achievement could pave the way for the development of a new generation of in-orbit maintenance systems.

Zehra Mammadova