The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced several major updates to its space programme at a press conference on Tuesday. Highlights include the Shenzhou-19 mission, the return of the Shenzhou-18 crew, and long-term plans for a manned flight to the moon by 2030.
Mission Shenzhou-19
The Shenzhou-19 crew consists of astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze, with Cai as mission commander. The spacecraft is scheduled to launch at 4:27 a.m. Wednesday from the Jiuquan spaceport in northwest China.
Cai Xuzhe, an experienced astronaut, has already participated in the Shenzhou-14 mission, during which he experienced six months of intensive work to complete the basic structure of the Chinese space station. Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze are newcomers to space, with Wang becoming the third Chinese woman to fly into space.
The Shenzhou-19 crew plans to conduct 86 science and technology experiments that include research on new materials, the effects of cosmic rays and microgravity on biological processes.
The return of the Shenzhou-18 crew
The Shenzhou-18 mission crew, consisting of Ye Guangfu, Li Cong and Li Guangsu, will return to Earth on November 4. The landing will take place at the Dongfeng site in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region of China. During its six-month mission, the crew has been engaged in scientific experiments, including the first space-based ecological research involving fish farming. Zebrafish exposed to microgravity exhibited unusual behaviors, which will provide valuable insights for future research.
The crew also made two ascents into open space (EVAs), one of which set a record with a duration of 8.5 hours.
Plans for a manned flight to the Moon and other missions
The CMSA also announced that it is working on a manned flight to the Moon to be completed by 2030. In addition, preparations are underway for the launch of the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship, scheduled for mid-November.
China's space programme is thus continuing apace, with ambitious goals and significant technological advances. These missions contribute not only to scientific knowledge but also to China's international position as a key player in space exploration.
CMG
English 
Czech 
Spanish 
French 
Italian 
German