China launched its first crewed mission in 5 years, as three military pilots set their sail to orbit the earth on Thursday morning. The crew was launched into space with the help of the Long March-2F Y12 rocket in the Shenzhou-12 spaceship. The rocket took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China, at the edge of the Gobi Desert.
OFF TO SPACE
The three science-minded military pilots included two veterans and one newcomer. As per reports, the spaceship is scheduled to reach the Tianhe space station around 4 p.m. (0800 GMT).
The journey to the space station will include half-dozen adjustments that will take place over the next four to six hours, suggest reports. Furthermore, the crew will be living for 3 months at the Tianhe or Heavenly Harmony station.
The crew is prepared to conduct various experiments and carry out tests at the space station. Reportedly, the crew will also test equipment and prepare the living section within the station for a future expansion. This as China may launch two laboratory modules by next year.
SPACE PROGRAMS IN THE FRAY
With China’s launch on Thursday morning, the total number of Chinese astronauts visiting space has gone up to 14. This is the third mission out of the total 11 planned by China through next year. In the next three months, another three-member crew and cargo ship will be sent to the space station with adequate supplies.
China is the only country apart from the Soviet Union and the United States to send people to space. However, China is not a part of the International Space Station, as the US has objected to their secrecy programs and close military involvement over the years. Reports suggest China has been cooperating with Russia and other countries with regard to space research and development.
