An accompanying satellite of the Tiangong-2 space lab sent back its first batch of high-resolution photographs on Tuesday. The satellite captured images of both the Tiangong-2 and Shenzhou-11, after it was launched from the space lab on Sunday.
Taken by a visible light camera installed on a micro satellite, these photos of the Tiangong-2 are obviously much clearer, compared with previous images shot by an infra-red camera.
The satellite weighs 47 kilograms and is the size of a printer, and is able to conduct efficient orbit control, process tasks autonomously, and transmit data at high speeds.
"Judging from the images sent back, the two cameras are working smoothly. At the end of October, the satellite will orbit above the Tiangong-2 and Shenzhou-11, and will send back the second batch of photos with the high-resolution camera," said Zhong Hong'en, chief designer, Space Application System.
And according to Mr. Zhong, the micro satellite will also carry out space experiments with the Tiangong-2 to expand the use of space.
"Next time, when the micro satellite orbits above the spacecraft and space lab, it will take photos again. Then, everyone will see images of the combination with the earth as the background," Zhong said.
With the mission's success, such light cameras carried on the satellite are expected to provide more support to in-orbit services of the space vehicles in the future.
