China space mission: On April 24, 2025, three astronauts were sent aboard Shenzhou 20 to replace the current Tiangong crew. China’s space program has achieved yet another noteworthy milestone, indicating the country’s growing desire to send humans to the Moon and Mars.. The Shenzhou 20 mission continues China’s progress in space exploration after becoming a key player in the space race with its own independent space station.
The Launch
China launched the Shenzhou 20 spacecraft atop the Long March 2F rocket at 5:17 p.m. local time (0917 GMT) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, on the edge of the Gobi Desert in northwestern China. The spacecraft is expected to reach the Tiangong space station about 6.5 hours after launch. Once docked, the new crew will relieve the three astronauts currently aboard the station.
Regarding the Tiangong Space Station
China constructed the Tiangong, or “Heavenly Palace,” entirely within the country as its space station. China became a prominent player in space research after the United States refused access to the International Space Station (ISS) due to national security concerns. There are worries about the possibility of military uses in space as a result of the continued construction of the space station, which involves the inclusion of mechanical weapons.
The Shenzhou 20 Crew
Chen Dong, a veteran astronaut on his third flight, commands the Shenzhou 20 mission. He is accompanied by fighter pilot Chen Zhongrui and engineer Wang Jie, both of whom are on their maiden voyages. This crew is unique, as it is the first to consist entirely of male astronauts.
They are replacing the current crew who were sent to the station in October 2024. The incoming astronauts will stay on the station for approximately six months, conducting experiments in fields such as medical science, new technologies, and spacewalks to maintain and upgrade the space station.
China’s Growing Space Aspirations
Since the launch of the nation’s first astronaut into orbit in 2003, China’s space program has made considerable strides. By 2030, China plans to send a crew to the moon and deploy a rover on Mars. Additionally, the country aims to place an explorer on the moon’s far side. With these advances, China is clearly making a name for itself as a prominent player in the global space competition.
Chinese Space Exploration Future
China’s space program is focusing on developing its capabilities for the future. Plans include crewed lunar missions and enhanced Mars exploration. The Shenzhou 20 crew’s launch marks the latest phase in China’s space exploration efforts. This is part of a larger plan to establish China’s dominance in space for many years to come.
Source: NBC News