China has launched the fourth mission of its reusable spacecraft called 'Shenlong' or "Divine Dragon." The official name and technical details are still under wraps, but the state news agency Xinhua says this launch is part of ongoing "technology verification" for peaceful use of outer space. The first Shenlong flew in September 2020, returning safely after two days. A second mission in August 2022 stayed 276 days in orbit, and the third mission launched in December 2023 spent 268 days in space demonstrating improved heat shielding and power systems. This craft also showed it could move and fly in formation, hinting at future satellite refuelling or repair capabilities. Some experts think the Shenlong might also have military uses like disabling enemy satellites. During its third flight, signals were detected over North America, suggesting the spacecraft may work as a mobile signals intelligence (SIGINT) platform. Meanwhile, the US leads with its reusable X-37B spacecraft. Its eighth mission launched last August tested advanced sensors for GPS-free navigation and secure laser communication links. It also deployed a small satellite. The previous X-37B mission pioneered “aerobraking” – using Earth's atmosphere to change orbit without fuel. This made its moves stealthy and lengthened its mission life. China’s steady progress with Shenlong is seen as a potential rival to the US Space Force’s X-37B, both pushing the frontier of reusable spacecraft technology.