China Prepares to Launch Shenzhou-20 Mission to Space Station
China is preparing to launch its latest manned space mission, Shenzhou-20, on Thursday at 5:17 p.m. local time (0917 GMT). The mission will send three astronauts to the Chinese space station, according to state media.
Mission to Replace Shenzhou-19 Crew
The Shenzhou-20 mission will focus on completing the crew rotation with the current Shenzhou-19 team. That crew is set to return to Earth on April 29, landing at the Dongfeng site. Officials shared these details during a press conference broadcast by China Central Television (CCTV).
This rotation marks a key milestone in maintaining continuous human presence aboard the Chinese space station. It also ensures that scientific operations continue without disruption.
Astronauts and Scientific Tasks
Astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie will undertake the mission. They are scheduled to perform several scientific tasks during their stay.
Their work includes conducting space science experiments and installing a device designed to protect the station from space debris. They will also manage extravehicular equipment and support system recovery procedures.
These activities are essential for both the safety and advancement of China’s space research capabilities.
Life Science Experiments Aboard
In addition to the astronaut crew, the Shenzhou-20 mission will transport zebrafish, planarians and streptomyces to the space station. These organisms will be part of three dedicated life science experiments.
The goal is to study how these life forms respond to the space environment. Insights from these experiments may help scientists better understand biological processes in microgravity.
The mission reflects China’s growing role in space exploration and its commitment to advancing research in orbit.
with inputs from Reuters
