First image of Tiangong 2, analysis

[xenomorph555]

We have been waiting for it and here it is:

This is Tiangong 2, I will do a run down of stuff I see.

1. A much longer service module, possibly more life support?

2. Living module slightly elongated, more living space?

3. Lots of things pointing out of the structure, mainly in the service module. These include what look like cameras, etc, but on the service module what look like RCT's, these were inside the structure on T-1 but have been moved outside to possibly make room. For what I am not sure, more life support, more plumbing for fuel refills, 2nd docking port and tunnel?

4. Diameter for the living module remains the same from the looks of it.

5. Service module diameter increased, possibly more stuff inside, 2nd DP and tunnel?

Overall here is my personal theory, T-2 is a structure test bed for the science lab modules on the mir class station and hardware/software test bed for all components.

[Kryten]

It's a test for resupply and multiple docking ports, we've known that for years. Are we sure this is actually T-2 and not Tianzhou?

[xenomorph555]

It's a test for resupply and multiple docking ports, we've known that for years. Are we sure this is actually T-2 and not Tianzhou?

We have known about the resupply but it has never been confirmed about multiple docking ports, it has been the subject of speculation for a long time. Also yes it is T-2, Tianzhou only entered actual production in September.