Three astronauts launched aboard Shenzhou XX for a six-month mission to the Tiangong space station.
They will conduct experiments, spacewalks, and educational outreach while supporting the station’s operations.
The mission ends with the scheduled return of the previous Shenzhou XIX crew on Tuesday.
Shenzhou XX was launched on Thursday, sending three astronauts on a six-month journey to the Tiangong space station. The Long March 2F rocket lifted off at 5:17 pm from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, carrying Commander Senior Colonel Chen Dong and crew members Colonel Chen Zhongrui and Colonel Wang Jie. After crossing the Karman line, the spacecraft initiated autonomous docking to reach the station early Friday.
Commander Chen Dong, on his third space mission, described the journey as uniquely exciting. Engineer Wang Jie emphasized the team’s collaborative spirit, where each astronaut has defined roles but also supports the others. This marks the 15th manned mission and the ninth crew to live aboard Tiangong, currently the only independently operated space station in orbit.
Over six months, the crew will perform scientific research, install space debris shielding during spacewalks, retrieve external equipment, and deliver science lectures. Their mission will conclude as the Shenzhou XIX crew returns to Earth on Tuesday.
https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202504/24/WS680a5e4ca3104d9fd3821691.html