Shenlong spaceplane reportedly deploys mystery object in orbit

LeoLabs observed an unknown object near China's Shenlong spaceplane on June 22, 2026, concluding it was released from the vehicle and cataloging it as a subsatellite. The event mirrors prior Shenlong missions that conducted sub-satellite deployments and rendezvous tests, though public mission objectives remain undisclosed and the implications—peaceful servicing versus potential strategic use—are a topic of discussion among observers.