Beijing [China], April 25: Three Chinese astronauts, known as taikonauts, launched into space on Thursday aboard the Shenzhou 20 spacecraft.
The Long March-2F carrier rocket lifted off from the Gobi Desert, as shown on Chinese state television. About 15 minutes later, after reaching orbit, the spacecraft deployed its solar panels. The ground station described the launch as a "success."
The six-month mission aims to replace the current crew of the Tiangong (Heavenly Palace) space station. Commander Chen Dong, who has already completed two previous missions, is accompanied by fellow taikonauts Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie.
The Tiangong station has been continuously occupied by a crew since 2021 and forms the cornerstone of Beijing's ambitious space programme. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune
