Tianzhou-9 Cargo Spacecraft Ready for Launch at Wenchang Site
China has taken a major step towards its next space mission, as the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft and Long March-7 Y10 carrier rocket were vertically transferred to the launching area at the Wenchang Space Launch Site on Saturday. This move marks a crucial stage before the scheduled launch, which will occur soon from China’s Hainan province.
Reliable Technology Ensures Launch in Complex Weather
The Wenchang Space Launch Site, located on the South China Sea coast, typically faces hot and rainy conditions in July. However, according to technicians, the Long March-7 rocket’s mature and reliable technology can handle such challenging weather.
Technician Wang Xi from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation explained that the rocket is well-prepared for high temperatures and moderate rainfall. The Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft, protected inside its payload fairing, is kept in optimal condition using air-conditioning systems. These systems regulate temperature and humidity during the transfer and after its arrival at the launch pad.
Tianzhou-9 to Deliver Supplies and Scientific Payloads
The Tianzhou-9 spacecraft will carry approximately 6.5 tonnes of supplies into orbit. This includes essential life-support materials for the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 astronaut teams. Additionally, the spacecraft will transport two new Feitian extravehicular spacesuits, a core muscle exercise device, and scientific payloads for research in space medicine and other experimental fields.
Following its arrival at the launch tower, technicians restore gas, liquid, and electrical system connections between the rocket and ground equipment. Pre-launch procedures include essential system tests, propellant tank replacements, and the pressurisation of gas cylinders.
Final checks and joint system tests are scheduled before the actual launch. The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that all ground facilities are ready and pre-launch operations are progressing as planned.
with inputs from Reuters
