China launches Shenzhou 23 spacecraft carrying 3 astronauts, including 1 set to remain in space for a year
CBS News • • general
Key Points:
- China successfully launched the Shenzhou 23 spacecraft carrying three astronauts to its Tiangong space station, with one crew member expected to stay in orbit for a year, marking one of the longest single space missions globally.
- The mission includes astronauts Zhu Yangzhu (commander), Zhang Zhiyuan, and Lai Ka-ying, the first astronaut from Hong Kong and the fourth Chinese female astronaut, who holds a doctorate in computer forensics.
- The crew will conduct numerous scientific experiments and complete an in-orbit rotation with the Shenzhou 21 crew, who have been aboard the station for over 200 days.
- This launch is part of China's broader space ambitions, including plans for a crewed lunar landing by 2030, and follows previous challenges such as a damaged spacecraft that delayed astronaut returns.
- China's Tiangong space station program has advanced despite exclusion from the International Space Station, positioning China as a key competitor to the U.S. in space exploration efforts.