Space Forum / Space Flight / October 2005

Yes, yes, and yes.

In the short term, it allows you to run automated experiments long after the
crew module departs.  In the long term, you can use those orbital modules as
the (at least partial) basis for a space station in LEO.  They could at
least be used as storage modules for a station.  You can later pack them
with trash and then undock them (and likely command them to reenter and burn
up).

Jeff

Isn't it Shenzhou 6?

I believe so.

Well, if the thing has docking connectors on both ends, Shenzhou 7
could bring another one up, and then Shenzhou 8 a third, and after
adding little to little, soon there could be a great pile, or a string
of pearls if you prefer.  Presto, a "space station." :) As a bonus,
the Chinese get practice in orbital rendezvous.

I've no idea how many one could expect to chain together before it
became unwieildy, but I suppose if Shenzhou N brought-up a "cross
peice" or something it could become more than just a long string.  And
there is the question of how long any one module can remain in orbit
independently I suppose among a myriad of other questions no doubt.

rick jones