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The Chinese space station’s placement at roughly 350 kilometers is largely due to technological limitations. Unlike the United States and Russia, which can afford more powerful rockets to send payloads into higher orbits, China’s space program is about one to two generations behind in rocket technology. Their heavier payloads and less advanced launch capabilities restrict them to lower orbits, which are easier and less energy-intensive to reach but come with increased debris risks.
Russia, understanding these limitations, appears to be cautious about sharing advanced rocket technology with China to avoid empowering a competitor. As a result, China’s approach and limitations place their space activities within a predictable but hazardous region crowded with old and new debris.