China has successfully launched its Shenzhou-21 spacecraft to the Tiangong Space Station, marking another major step forward in its growing space exploration program. The mission features Wu Fei, who at 32 years old is now China’s youngest astronaut, along with Zhang Hongzhang, a first-time space traveler, and Zhang Lu, a seasoned commander leading the crew.
This is China’s seventh mission to its permanently inhabited space station, known as the “Heavenly Palace.” The launch highlights the nation’s rapid progress in space science and technology. For the first time, China has also sent four mice into orbit as part of biological research aimed at studying reproduction and behavioral changes in microgravity.
The astronauts will spend approximately six months aboard the station, where they will conduct 27 scientific and applied experiments. Their research will cover a range of fields, including biotechnology, aerospace medicine, and materials science, all of which contribute to understanding how humans can live and work effectively in space.
China’s latest mission reflects its growing ambition to become a leading power in human spaceflight and scientific innovation. The Shenzhou-21 team’s work is expected to yield valuable insights for future long-term missions and potential lunar exploration efforts.
With each successful launch, China continues to strengthen its reputation as a key global player in space exploration, paving the way for a new era of discovery and international collaboration beyond Earth.
