China made history in space - but that's not necessarily good news

China performed its first laser cutting in space using a remotely operated robotic arm. The technology could change satellite maintenance, but the US fears dual military use.

China performed its first precision laser cutting in space using a remotely operated robotic arm aboard the Tiangong space station. The system was developed by Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and the Shanghai Institute of Space Energy Sources, and was operated from hundreds of kilometers away. The technology could enable automatic repairs in space and extend satellite lifespans, but the US fears dual use as directed-energy weapons. A US defense intelligence report assessed that China could deploy such a weapon in space by the end of the decade, but presented no evidence that the current system is intended for military use. NASA is also developing similar laser technologies for space repairs.