Companion Microsatellite in SZ-7 Flight Mission

The BX-1 micro-satellite, successfully released from the Shenzhou-7 (SZ-7) module, accomplished the purposes of providing the images of the SZ-7 and demonstrating the ability to inspect the orbital module and conduct proximity operations around the SZ-7 module. The BX-1 was a demonstrator for many new space technologies, including GaInP2/GaAs/Ge solar cells, lithiumion battery, micro-ammonia thruster, micro-attitude tracking controller, camera with double-focusing systems and micro-USB-responsor. The criterion of forming the stable elliptic orbit around the SZ-7 module is discussed in this paper. The evaluation of the BX-1 micro-satellite mission is provided by flight datum.