Shenzhou-20 Crew Completes Second Spacewalk to Boost Efficiency
The Shenzhou-20 crew aboard China’s orbiting space station has completed their mission’s second extravehicular activity (EVA), according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
On Thursday, astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie completed a 6.5-hour spacewalk, finishing their tasks at 21:29 Beijing Time with support from the robotic arm and ground teams.
Astronauts Complete Key Equipment Installations
Chen Zhongrui opened the hatch at 15:04 and became the first to step outside during this mission. Positioned at the hatch, Chen Dong passed the airlock protective device to Chen Zhongrui, who then began the installation process.
Two hours later, Chen Dong joined the EVA. Working closely, the pair installed automated foot restraint adapters and interface adapters on the station’s exterior. This new equipment will shorten future spacewalks by around 40 minutes, according to the CMSA.
Li Xuedong, lead designer at the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, explained that the automated foot limiter allows the robotic arm to pre-position itself with all equipment before astronauts exit. This upgrade removes the need for manual installation and improves operational efficiency during EVAs.
Tests and Maintenance Completed During EVA
After installing the equipment, Chen Dong conducted mobility verification tests between work sites. The robotic arm then captured the foot restraint adapter and attached it to the hatch toolbox, with Wang Jie coordinating from inside the Tianhe core module.
The Shenzhou-20 crew also installed a debris protection device and inspected external systems during the EVA. These actions help maintain the station’s safety and extend its operational life.
Crew Continues Space Science Work
Following the completion of the EVA, Chen Zhongrui and Chen Dong returned safely to the Tianhe core module, marking another milestone for the mission.
Reflecting on the mission, Chen Zhongrui shared, “The universe is vast and silent, but not lonely. Countless stars light up the night sky, just like countless space workers who have been supporting us.”
The ground team replied, “Thank you, Shenzhou-20 crew. You are the brightest stars in the sky. We will always be with you.”
The Shenzhou-20 crew, launched on 24 April 2025, will continue working on scientific experiments during their six-month mission. They will conduct research in space life sciences, microgravity physics, space medicine, and advanced aerospace technologies in the coming months.
with inputs from Reuters
