From: rick.jones2@hp.com   
      
   Isn't it Shenzhou 6?   
      
   Gene Cash  wrote:   
   > Space.com has a diagram, and it says the orbital module is "capable   
   > of independent navigation"   
      
   > Does this mean it can stay in orbit and function after the crew   
   > module departs?   
      
   I believe so.   
      
   > If so, any particular benefit to that?   
      
   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   
   --   
   firebug n, the idiot who tosses a lit cigarette out his car window   
   these opinions are mine, all mine; HP might not want them anyway... :)   
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