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Aerospace & Defense Industries

China cries foul after space station dodges Elon Musk satellites

Celestial tensions mount with U.S. as both sides aim for supremacy

The U.S. has authorized SpaceX to launch around 12,000 satellites for its Starlink broadband network. (Photo courtesy of SpaceX) 

PALO ALTO, U.S. -- China on Tuesday accused the U.S. of ignoring international space law and urged Washington to act responsibly after two near-collisions this year between Beijing's new orbiting station and satellites launched by Elon Musk's exploration company SpaceX.

The U.S. should "take prompt measures to prevent such incidents from recurring, and act responsibly to safeguard the safety of in-orbit astronauts and the safe and steady operation of space facilities," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters.

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