China sent embryo-like structures into space aboard the Tianzhou-10 cargo craft on May 10. They are made from living human stem cells and spent five days at the Tiangong space station in an experiment aimed at understanding how microgravity could affect the early development of human embryos. Also known as blastoids or embryoids, scientists stressed that they are not real embryos but created in a laboratory to mimic key stages of growth. China has previously sent embryos of the aquarium fish zebrafish (Danio rerio) and mice as part of a broader programme of biological research. The embryos are in the stage between the 14th and 21st day after fertilisation, a period which can reveal congenital defects and diseases. However, testing the same on real human embryos on Earth is not possible since guidelines restrict researchers from growing human embryos in a lab past two weeks.&nbsp;In a way, China is breaking a rule and utilising a powerful double loophole, but for a good cause. First, these models aren't legally "human embryos," so they can surpass the critical 14-to-21-day developmental window without violating international bioethics laws. Second, it has taken this research into off-world laboratories that are not governed by terrestrial guidelines.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/unexplainable-activity-in-w-constellation-cassiopeia-finally-has-an-answer-160-years-later-1779719224496">Unexplainable 'ghost' activity in Cassiopeia finally has an answer 160 years later</a><h2>About the experiment</h2> Two types of models of artificial embryos with different phases of embryonic development were made. The first set of samples recreates the critical stage of when an embryo attaches itself to the uterine wall. The other samples placed inside a microfluidic chip were at the stage where a single layer of cells reorganises to form tissues and organs. “This is not a real human embryo and cannot develop into an individual. However, it can serve as a model for studying early human development," Yu Leqian, the project leader, said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-major-breakthrough-3d-printed-artificial-egg-hatched-to-produce-26-chickens-1779196170468">In major breakthrough, 3D-printed artificial egg hatched to produce 26 chickens</a><h2>The 14th and 21st day critical window</h2> Leqian said that the models are between the 14th and 21st day stage after fertilisation. This is when the body’s basic structure begins to form. The positioning of body parts is determined at this time, and organs also begin to form. Any problems at this time can subsequently lead to congenital defects and diseases. Such experiments are already being carried out on Earth with artificial embryos since they are not governed by the 14-day rule. But the latest experiment takes it up a notch and into space, where biological defects that are not presenting themselves in the lab could reveal themselves in microgravity and cosmic radiation.&nbsp;<h2>Aim of the experiment</h2>&nbsp;The main purpose of this first-of-its-kind experiment is to understand whether space has a direct influence on early biological organisation and how they organised themselves into complex structures of the body. Identifying potential risks associated with development in space is another aim of the experiment. The artificial embryos are being monitored by taikonauts with nutrient solutions that are changed daily, helping maintain stable conditions for their growth. The samples will then be frozen in orbit and later brought back to Earth for analysis.&nbsp; &nbsp;

China sent artificial embryos in space aboard the Tianzhou-10 spacecraft, where they will undergo a 5-day experiment at the Tiangong space station. The purpose is to know the effects of space environment on their development, and reveal defects that would not be visible on Earth.

China sent embryo-like structures into space aboard the Tianzhou-10 cargo craft on May 10. They are made from living human stem cells and spent five days at the Tiangong space station in an experiment aimed at understanding how microgravity could affect the early development of human embryos. Also known as blastoids or embryoids, scientists stressed that they are not real embryos but created in a laboratory to mimic key stages of growth. China has previously sent embryos of the aquarium fish zebrafish (Danio rerio) and mice as part of a broader programme of biological research. The embryos are in the stage between the 14th and 21st day after fertilisation, a period which can reveal congenital defects and diseases. However, testing the same on real human embryos on Earth is not possible since guidelines restrict researchers from growing human embryos in a lab past two weeks. In a way, China is breaking a rule and utilising a powerful double loophole, but for a good cause. First, these models aren't legally "human embryos," so they can surpass the critical 14-to-21-day developmental window without violating international bioethics laws. Second, it has taken this research into off-world laboratories that are not governed by terrestrial guidelines. Also Read: Unexplainable 'ghost' activity in Cassiopeia finally has an answer 160 years later About the experiment Two types of models of artificial embryos with different phases of embryonic development were made. The first set of samples recreates the critical stage of when an embryo attaches itself to the uterine wall. The other samples placed inside a microfluidic chip were at the stage where a single layer of cells reorganises to form tissues and organs. “This is not a real human embryo and cannot develop into an individual. However, it can serve as a model for studying early human development," Yu Leqian, the project leader, said. Also Read: In major breakthrough, 3D-printed artificial egg hatched to produce 26 chickens The 14th and 21st day critical window Leqian said that the models are between the 14th and 21st day stage after fertilisation. This is when the body’s basic structure begins to form. The positioning of body parts is determined at this time, and organs also begin to form. Any problems at this time can subsequently lead to congenital defects and diseases. Such experiments are already being carried out on Earth with artificial embryos since they are not governed by the 14-day rule. But the latest experiment takes it up a notch and into space, where biological defects that are not presenting themselves in the lab could reveal themselves in microgravity and cosmic radiation. Aim of the experiment The main purpose of this first-of-its-kind experiment is to understand whether space has a direct influence on early biological organisation and how they organised themselves into complex structures of the body. Identifying potential risks associated with development in space is another aim of the experiment. The artificial embryos are being monitored by taikonauts with nutrient solutions that are changed daily, helping maintain stable conditions for their growth. The samples will then be frozen in orbit and later brought back to Earth for analysis.

China sent artificial embryos in space aboard the Tianzhou-10 spacecraft, where they will undergo a 5-day experiment at the Tiangong space station. The purpose is to know the effects of space environment on their development, and reveal defects that would not be visible on Earth.

Bypassing the 14-day rule: China’s ‘artificial embryos’ exploit a double loophole in orbit

The crew of China’s Shenzhou-20 mission, docked at the Tiangong space station since April, were due to return to Earth this week. However, their homecoming has been postponed indefinitely after their return capsule was suspected to have been struck by tiny fragments of space debris.

Three Chinese astronauts stuck in orbit after Sunita Williams, what went wrong with Shenzhou-20?

The Chinese Manned Space Agency(CMSA) announced on Thursday (30th Oct) that they would train two Pakistani astronauts, one of whom would later join the Chinese crew on a short-duration mission to China's Tiangong Space Station. This Pakistani astronaut, who would eventually be chosen for undertaking human spaceflight, would be the first foreign visitor to the Chinese Space Station. China is Pakistan's main backer when it comes to space technology.While the decades-old International Space Station is a multilateral effort that involves the US, Russia, Japan, Canada and Europe, China has been operating its own full-fledged Tiangong (literal meaning Heavenly Palace) space station since late 2022. Like the International Space Station, its Chinese counterpart serves as a lab that circles 400 km above the Earth, hosts a wide range of experiments and a permanent crew of astronauts.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-world-changing-threat-thousands-mysterious-underwater-ufos-spotted-near-us-shores-ex-navy-admiral-warns-1761547551599">'World-changing' threat? Thousands of mysterious underwater UFOs spotted near US shores; ex-Navy admiral warns...</a>"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts. One of them will be scheduled to carry out a short-duration flight mission as a payload expert based on the mid-term plan for the Chinese space station and the cooperation process," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the CMSA. During the mission, the astronaut, in addition to performing routine duties, will also conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan, it was revealed.Following the signing of a cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan in February this year, the official selection process for Pakistani astronauts has been launched, according to the CMSA spokesperson.China's astronaut selection process consists of three stages: preliminary selection, secondary selection, and final selection. In the case of the Pakistani astronaut, the preliminary stage is being carried out in Pakistan, while the secondary and final selections will take place in China, said the spokesperson.Preparations for the secondary selection phase are already underway, including training programs, teaching materials, training equipment, and logistical support for daily life during the training period.While Pakistan has a space agency by the name SUPARCO, its independent activities are very limited, and they do not possess spacefaring rockets. Most of Pakistan's satellites are built with assistance from China, and their launches are carried out on Chinese rockets from Chinese soil."We're proactive in selecting foreign astronauts to participate in flight missions to the Chinese space station, facilitating international cooperation and exchange. We welcome counterparts from all over the world to participate in Chinese space station expeditions," said Zhang Jingbo.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-like-watching-a-living-galaxy-unfurl-beneath-you-shubhanshu-shukla-shares-breathtaking-diwali-spectacle-of-india-from-space-station-watch-video-1761020335036">'Like watching a living galaxy unfurl beneath you': Shubhanshu Shukla shares breathtaking Diwali spectacle of India from space station. Watch video</a><h2>In 2025, an Indian astronaut flew to the International Space Station</h2>In June 2025, Indian Air Force Test Pilot, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, flew to the International Space Station(ISS) as part of the American Axiom-4 mission, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon craft. Shukla became the second Indian to fly to space, and he did so 41 years after the Soviet mission that carried India's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to the then Salyut-7 Soviet Space station.While Rakesh Sharma's mission was done during the nascent stage of the Indian Space Programme, Shukla's Axiom-4 flight is meant to serve as a precursor and training mission for India's own Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. As part of Gaganyaan, India's space agency ISRO is working towards independently launching Indian astronauts on an Indian rocket and capsule to circle the earth, perform basic experiments within the capsule, and return safely for a splashdown landing. India hopes to accomplish Gaganyaan by the end of the decade, and also has long-term plans of building an independent space station.&nbsp;

"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

The Chinese Manned Space Agency(CMSA) announced on Thursday (30th Oct) that they would train two Pakistani astronauts, one of whom would later join the Chinese crew on a short-duration mission to China's Tiangong Space Station. This Pakistani astronaut, who would eventually be chosen for undertaking human spaceflight, would be the first foreign visitor to the Chinese Space Station. China is Pakistan's main backer when it comes to space technology. While the decades-old International Space Station is a multilateral effort that involves the US, Russia, Japan, Canada and Europe, China has been operating its own full-fledged Tiangong (literal meaning Heavenly Palace) space station since late 2022. Like the International Space Station, its Chinese counterpart serves as a lab that circles 400 km above the Earth, hosts a wide range of experiments and a permanent crew of astronauts. Also read | 'World-changing' threat? Thousands of mysterious underwater UFOs spotted near US shores; ex-Navy admiral warns... "According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts. One of them will be scheduled to carry out a short-duration flight mission as a payload expert based on the mid-term plan for the Chinese space station and the cooperation process," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the CMSA. During the mission, the astronaut, in addition to performing routine duties, will also conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan, it was revealed. Following the signing of a cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan in February this year, the official selection process for Pakistani astronauts has been launched, according to the CMSA spokesperson. China's astronaut selection process consists of three stages: preliminary selection, secondary selection, and final selection. In the case of the Pakistani astronaut, the preliminary stage is being carried out in Pakistan, while the secondary and final selections will take place in China, said the spokesperson. Preparations for the secondary selection phase are already underway, including training programs, teaching materials, training equipment, and logistical support for daily life during the training period. While Pakistan has a space agency by the name SUPARCO, its independent activities are very limited, and they do not possess spacefaring rockets. Most of Pakistan's satellites are built with assistance from China, and their launches are carried out on Chinese rockets from Chinese soil. "We're proactive in selecting foreign astronauts to participate in flight missions to the Chinese space station, facilitating international cooperation and exchange. We welcome counterparts from all over the world to participate in Chinese space station expeditions," said Zhang Jingbo. Also read | 'Like watching a living galaxy unfurl beneath you': Shubhanshu Shukla shares breathtaking Diwali spectacle of India from space station. Watch video In 2025, an Indian astronaut flew to the International Space Station In June 2025, Indian Air Force Test Pilot, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, flew to the International Space Station(ISS) as part of the American Axiom-4 mission, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and Crew Dragon craft. Shukla became the second Indian to fly to space, and he did so 41 years after the Soviet mission that carried India's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to the then Salyut-7 Soviet Space station. While Rakesh Sharma's mission was done during the nascent stage of the Indian Space Programme, Shukla's Axiom-4 flight is meant to serve as a precursor and training mission for India's own Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. As part of Gaganyaan, India's space agency ISRO is working towards independently launching Indian astronauts on an Indian rocket and capsule to circle the earth, perform basic experiments within the capsule, and return safely for a splashdown landing. India hopes to accomplish Gaganyaan by the end of the decade, and also has long-term plans of building an independent space station.

"According to the plan, two selected Pakistani astronauts will undergo training along with Chinese astronauts," announced Zhang Jingbo, spokesperson of the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

Pakistani astronaut to visit Chinese Space Station; to be first foreign visitor there

A new video from China's Tiangong Space Station has conspiracy theorists convinced that the astronauts aren't actually in space. They pointed to a humble glass of water to prove their point, asking how the water inside the glass is where there is no gravity in space? In the <a href="https://x.com/BGatesIsaPyscho/status/1934197810645332426">video</a>, as the astronauts share their experience, a glass of water can be seen sitting on a table near them.Some users on X noted that the water was sitting perfectly well inside the glass. They asked, How is it possible? In space, where there is no gravity, everything floats around. This has led us to think that even water inside a glass should be swirling inside the space station.&nbsp;"Why isn't the water floating out of the glass?" a user asked.Another assumed that the water should be floating around, a risky thing at a space station which also houses several valuable and delicate instruments. "Call me crazy but if I was orbiting the Earth at 17,500mph in zero gravity surrounded complex computers, I probably wouldn’t risk an unconcealed glass of water resting on the table."&nbsp;The user said that maybe it is stuck to the surface using Velcro.Even if that keeps the glass stuck, what holds back the water?&nbsp;<h2>This is how water behaves in space</h2>&nbsp;There is nothing sinister happening in this picture, and there is a completely scientific explanation for the water.&nbsp;Water likes to stay with its buddies (other water molecules) and in a safe space (the glass). He told Associated Press, "Water molecules like to stick to glass and also to other water molecules more than they like to disperse in the air."&nbsp;Water consists of slightly positive hydrogen atoms and slightly negative oxygen atoms, creating a strong surface tension as they pull towards each other. This is why water stays intact and is not influenced by external forces.&nbsp;Chinese astronauts often share insights from the Tiangong space station. In this particular video, they were talking to students on Earth, teaching them how buoyancy works differently in space by suspending a ping-pong ball in water.&nbsp;Earlier, in one such video, they shared everything that the space station held, including astronaut beds. They also gave a peek through a window into space and what Earth looked like from up there.

Does water float in space? A video from the Tiangong space station has intrigued people, who are asking how is the water staying inside a glass, without flowing out in zero gravity?

A new video from China's Tiangong Space Station has conspiracy theorists convinced that the astronauts aren't actually in space. They pointed to a humble glass of water to prove their point, asking how the water inside the glass is where there is no gravity in space? In the video, as the astronauts share their experience, a glass of water can be seen sitting on a table near them. Some users on X noted that the water was sitting perfectly well inside the glass. They asked, How is it possible? In space, where there is no gravity, everything floats around. This has led us to think that even water inside a glass should be swirling inside the space station. "Why isn't the water floating out of the glass?" a user asked. Another assumed that the water should be floating around, a risky thing at a space station which also houses several valuable and delicate instruments. "Call me crazy but if I was orbiting the Earth at 17,500mph in zero gravity surrounded complex computers, I probably wouldn’t risk an unconcealed glass of water resting on the table." The user said that maybe it is stuck to the surface using Velcro. Even if that keeps the glass stuck, what holds back the water? This is how water behaves in space There is nothing sinister happening in this picture, and there is a completely scientific explanation for the water. Water likes to stay with its buddies (other water molecules) and in a safe space (the glass). He told Associated Press, "Water molecules like to stick to glass and also to other water molecules more than they like to disperse in the air." Water consists of slightly positive hydrogen atoms and slightly negative oxygen atoms, creating a strong surface tension as they pull towards each other. This is why water stays intact and is not influenced by external forces. Chinese astronauts often share insights from the Tiangong space station. In this particular video, they were talking to students on Earth, teaching them how buoyancy works differently in space by suspending a ping-pong ball in water. Earlier, in one such video, they shared everything that the space station held, including astronaut beds. They also gave a peek through a window into space and what Earth looked like from up there.

Does water float in space? A video from the Tiangong space station has intrigued people, who are asking how is the water staying inside a glass, without flowing out in zero gravity?

'Why isn't it...?' A glass of water at Tiangong Space Station leads to questions

China has successfully launched a three-person crew to the Tiangong space station for a six-month mission. Watch this report for more details!

China Sends Three Astronauts To Tiangong Space Station

Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit.

The Shenzhou-19 mission took off with its trio of space explorers at 4:27 am (2027 GMT Tuesday) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Xinhua and state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Among the crew is Wang Haoze, 34, China's only woman spaceflight engineer, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). She is the third Chinese woman to take part in a crewed mission.

The crew arrived around 12:51 pm and met with the astronauts from the previous Shenzhou-18 mission, "starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover", state news agency Xinhua said.

The new Tiangong team will carry out experiments with an eye to the space programme's goal of placing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and eventually constructing a lunar base.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-chinese-astronauts-show-off-their-lavish-space-at-tiangong-space-station-772002">Also read:&nbsp;Watch: Chinese astronauts show off their lavish space at Tiangong space station</a>

"Like everyone else, I dream of going to the space station to have a look," Wang told a media gathering Tuesday alongside her fellow crew members, lined up behind podiums and tall panes of glass to seal them off from the public.

"I want to meticulously complete each task and protect our home in space," she said.

"I also want to travel in deep space and wave at the stars."

The space agency deemed the launch a "complete success", Xinhua said, adding that about 10 minutes after taking off, the spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit.

Xinhua later said the spaceship had "made a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station's core module Tianhe at 11:00 am", and that the trio would then enter the module.

<h2>'Honour of my mission'&nbsp;</h2>

Headed by Cai Xuzhe, the team will return to Earth in late April or early May next year, CMSA Deputy Director Lin Xiqiang said at a separate press event ahead of the launch.

Cai, a 48-year-old former Air Force pilot, brings experience from a previous stint aboard Tiangong as part of the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022.

"Having been selected for the new crew, taking on a new role, facing new tasks and new challenges, I feel the honor of my mission with a great responsibility," said Cai.

The aerospace veteran added that the crew was now "fully prepared mentally, technically, physically and psychologically" for the mission ahead.

Completing the astronaut lineup is 34-year-old Song Lingdong.

The new and old crew will live and work together for about five days to complete planned tasks and handover work, the CMSA said, according to Xinhua.

The Shenzhou-18 crew is scheduled to return to Earth on November 4, it added.

<h2>'Space dream'&nbsp;</h2>

China has ramped up plans to achieve its "space dream" under President Xi Jinping.

Its space programme was the third to put humans in orbit and has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon.

Crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, the Tiangong space station is the program's crown jewel.

Beijing says it is on track to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030, where it intends to construct a base on the lunar surface.

The Shenzhou-19 crew's time aboard Tiangong will see them carry out various experiments, including some involving "bricks" made from components imitating lunar soil, CCTV reported.

These items&nbsp;–&nbsp;to be delivered to Tiangong by the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship in November&nbsp;–&nbsp;will be tested to see how they fare in extreme radiation, gravity, temperature and other conditions.

Due to the high cost of transporting materials into space, Chinese scientists hope to be able to use lunar soil for the construction of the future base, CCTV reported.

The Shenzhou-19 mission is primarily about "accumulating additional experience", Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the United States, told AFP.

While this particular crew's six-month stint aboard Tiangong may not witness major breakthroughs or feats, it is still "very valuable to do", said McDowell.

China has in recent decades injected billions of dollars into developing an advanced space programme on par with the United States and Europe.

In 2019, China successfully landed its Chang'e-4 probe on the far side of the moon, the first spacecraft ever to do so. In 2021, it landed a small robot on Mars.

Tiangong, whose core module launched in 2021, is planned to be used for about 10 years.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit.

Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit. The Shenzhou-19 mission took off with its trio of space explorers at 4:27 am (2027 GMT Tuesday) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Xinhua and state broadcaster CCTV reported. Among the crew is Wang Haoze, 34, China's only woman spaceflight engineer, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). She is the third Chinese woman to take part in a crewed mission. The crew arrived around 12:51 pm and met with the astronauts from the previous Shenzhou-18 mission, "starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover", state news agency Xinhua said. The new Tiangong team will carry out experiments with an eye to the space programme's goal of placing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and eventually constructing a lunar base. Also read: Watch: Chinese astronauts show off their lavish space at Tiangong space station "Like everyone else, I dream of going to the space station to have a look," Wang told a media gathering Tuesday alongside her fellow crew members, lined up behind podiums and tall panes of glass to seal them off from the public. "I want to meticulously complete each task and protect our home in space," she said. "I also want to travel in deep space and wave at the stars." The space agency deemed the launch a "complete success", Xinhua said, adding that about 10 minutes after taking off, the spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. Xinhua later said the spaceship had "made a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station's core module Tianhe at 11:00 am", and that the trio would then enter the module. 'Honour of my mission' Headed by Cai Xuzhe, the team will return to Earth in late April or early May next year, CMSA Deputy Director Lin Xiqiang said at a separate press event ahead of the launch. Cai, a 48-year-old former Air Force pilot, brings experience from a previous stint aboard Tiangong as part of the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022. "Having been selected for the new crew, taking on a new role, facing new tasks and new challenges, I feel the honor of my mission with a great responsibility," said Cai. The aerospace veteran added that the crew was now "fully prepared mentally, technically, physically and psychologically" for the mission ahead. Completing the astronaut lineup is 34-year-old Song Lingdong. The new and old crew will live and work together for about five days to complete planned tasks and handover work, the CMSA said, according to Xinhua. The Shenzhou-18 crew is scheduled to return to Earth on November 4, it added. 'Space dream' China has ramped up plans to achieve its "space dream" under President Xi Jinping. Its space programme was the third to put humans in orbit and has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. Crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, the Tiangong space station is the program's crown jewel. Beijing says it is on track to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030, where it intends to construct a base on the lunar surface. The Shenzhou-19 crew's time aboard Tiangong will see them carry out various experiments, including some involving "bricks" made from components imitating lunar soil, CCTV reported. These items – to be delivered to Tiangong by the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship in November – will be tested to see how they fare in extreme radiation, gravity, temperature and other conditions. Due to the high cost of transporting materials into space, Chinese scientists hope to be able to use lunar soil for the construction of the future base, CCTV reported. The Shenzhou-19 mission is primarily about "accumulating additional experience", Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the United States, told AFP. While this particular crew's six-month stint aboard Tiangong may not witness major breakthroughs or feats, it is still "very valuable to do", said McDowell. China has in recent decades injected billions of dollars into developing an advanced space programme on par with the United States and Europe. In 2019, China successfully landed its Chang'e-4 probe on the far side of the moon, the first spacecraft ever to do so. In 2021, it landed a small robot on Mars. Tiangong, whose core module launched in 2021, is planned to be used for about 10 years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China sends 3 astronauts to Tiangong space station on Shenzhou-19 mission

Chinese astronauts recently gave a detailed tour of the country's Tiangong space station currently orbiting Earth at a height of 400 kilometres. The video shared by the Chinese state-owned news agency CCTV shows three astronauts talking about life on the space station and its key features.

The nearly seven-minute-long video shows the lab module, the sleeping space, the kitchen and hot water heater and more. You can also see cherry tomatoes and lettuce plants growing in the station's greenhouse. The three astronauts in the video are members of the current Shenzhou-18 crew.

The extremely detailed video gives a glimpse into the otherwise secretive space programme of the country.

The video starts with the three of them introducing themselves before proceeding to show off the amenities and the distinctive features of the space station. It first shows the core module of the station, which they call the most important portion of Tiangong. It serves as the control and module centre of the space station.

In the same section is their dining area, equipped with a heating device, a microwave, a refrigerator and a water dispenser. They also show how they get water out into small pouches since microgravity does not allow it to be poured into cups.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-can-hitch-a-ride-to-mars-on-board-an-asteroid-ukrainian-scientists-say-771624">Humans can hitch a ride to Mars on board an asteroid, Ukrainian scientists say</a>

The astronaut talking to the camera also goes on to say that since the three of them come from different parts of China, their tastes differ, and so their food is custom-made to their liking.

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&nbsp;

Each astronaut has his own sleeping area, with a porthole (window) that is their "window to the universe" which they use to "gaze at our beautiful Earth".

<h2>Preparing to go to the Moon and Mars</h2>

You also see two lab modules - Wentian and Megtian - used for different types of experiments. There are animals and plants on board the space station where their development is observed under microgravity conditions. The astronaut explains that the purpose of this section is to reach findings that will help them "lay the foundation for long-term habitation of Moon and even Mars in the future".

The video also shows how astronauts use the resistance training device to exercise on the space station - dead squats, deep lifts and rowing.

The Shenzhou-18 crew will soon leave for Earth and Shenzhou-19 crew will replace them at the space station.

China has made tremendous growth in its space programme, having assembled three modules of its space station in just two years. It aims to send humans to the Moon by 2030.&nbsp;

Chinese astronauts recently gave a detailed tour of the country's Tiangong space station currently orbiting Earth at a height of 400 kilometres. The video shared by the Chinese state-owned news agency CCTV shows three astronauts talking about life on the space station and its key features.

Chinese astronauts recently gave a detailed tour of the country's Tiangong space station currently orbiting Earth at a height of 400 kilometres. The video shared by the Chinese state-owned news agency CCTV shows three astronauts talking about life on the space station and its key features. The nearly seven-minute-long video shows the lab module, the sleeping space, the kitchen and hot water heater and more. You can also see cherry tomatoes and lettuce plants growing in the station's greenhouse. The three astronauts in the video are members of the current Shenzhou-18 crew. The extremely detailed video gives a glimpse into the otherwise secretive space programme of the country. The video starts with the three of them introducing themselves before proceeding to show off the amenities and the distinctive features of the space station. It first shows the core module of the station, which they call the most important portion of Tiangong. It serves as the control and module centre of the space station. In the same section is their dining area, equipped with a heating device, a microwave, a refrigerator and a water dispenser. They also show how they get water out into small pouches since microgravity does not allow it to be poured into cups. Also Read: Humans can hitch a ride to Mars on board an asteroid, Ukrainian scientists say The astronaut talking to the camera also goes on to say that since the three of them come from different parts of China, their tastes differ, and so their food is custom-made to their liking. × Each astronaut has his own sleeping area, with a porthole (window) that is their "window to the universe" which they use to "gaze at our beautiful Earth". Preparing to go to the Moon and Mars You also see two lab modules - Wentian and Megtian - used for different types of experiments. There are animals and plants on board the space station where their development is observed under microgravity conditions. The astronaut explains that the purpose of this section is to reach findings that will help them "lay the foundation for long-term habitation of Moon and even Mars in the future". The video also shows how astronauts use the resistance training device to exercise on the space station - dead squats, deep lifts and rowing. The Shenzhou-18 crew will soon leave for Earth and Shenzhou-19 crew will replace them at the space station. China has made tremendous growth in its space programme, having assembled three modules of its space station in just two years. It aims to send humans to the Moon by 2030.

Watch: Chinese astronauts show off their lavish space at Tiangong space station

China on&nbsp;Thursday (Apr 25) launched a manned spaceship into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.&nbsp;The Long March-2F carrier rocket blasted off the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft with three Chinese astronauts on board.

The space mission is&nbsp;China’s&nbsp;first&nbsp;manned&nbsp;mission this year and 32nd manned flight so far.&nbsp;

The flight&nbsp;is scheduled&nbsp;to reach the Tiangong space station 6.5 hours after&nbsp;launch.

Watch video:&nbsp;

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🚀 China Launches Manned Shenzhou-18 Mission to Tiangong Space Station <a href="https://t.co/SEoDk4J1BQ">pic.twitter.com/SEoDk4J1BQ</a>
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_India_news/status/1783496186285986048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, a send-off ceremony&nbsp;was held&nbsp;for the crew members before the launch. The astronauts will stay at the China Space Station for six months and return to the Dongfeng landing site in north&nbsp;China's&nbsp;Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in October this year.

<h2>Who are the three astronauts?&nbsp;</h2>

The three Chinese astronauts are Ye Guangfu, Li Cong and Li Guangsu, all&nbsp;of them&nbsp;born in the 1980s.

Watch:&nbsp;Blinken’s Visit to China: US Secy of State Antony Blinken holds meeting with top Shanghai official

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The three persons will carry out six&nbsp;cargo&nbsp;outbound deliveries via the&nbsp;station's&nbsp;cargo airlock module and implement two to three extravehicular activities (EVAs).

<h2>The mission</h2>

The astronauts will&nbsp;“install space debris protection reinforcements for extravehicular piping, cables and critical equipment and carry out extravehicular inspections, as appropriate, to further safeguard the safety of the China Space Station,”&nbsp;announced the China Manned Space Agency.

"During the Shenzhou-18 mission, experimental equipment and related samples will be taken to space, and the&nbsp;country's&nbsp;first in-orbit aquatic ecological research project will be implemented. Using zebrafish and hornwort to establish a self-cycling aquatic ecosystem in orbit, the project aims to make a breakthrough in the cultivation of vertebrates in space,"&nbsp;Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjC37L12d2FAxXMRmwGHZACBxcQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-calls-for-us-china-to-manage-differences-responsibly-714711" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-calls-for-us-china-to-manage-differences-responsibly-714711&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjC37L12d2FAxXMRmwGHZACBxcQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Blinken calls for US, China to manage differences `responsibly`</a>

"The&nbsp;world's&nbsp;first in-orbit stem cell study on the&nbsp;plant's&nbsp;stem tips will be made to reveal the mechanism of plant evolutionary adaptation to gravity and provide theoretical support for space cropping,"&nbsp;Lin added.

China began constructing its Tiangong space station in 2021, completing the T-shaped facility in late 2022. Since then, the space station has been hosting crews of three astronauts for&nbsp;periods of&nbsp;six months.

China on Thursday (Apr 25) launched a manned spaceship into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The Long March-2F carrier rocket blasted off the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft with three Chinese astronauts on board.

China on Thursday (Apr 25) launched a manned spaceship into space from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The Long March-2F carrier rocket blasted off the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft with three Chinese astronauts on board. The space mission is China’s first manned mission this year and 32nd manned flight so far. The flight is scheduled to reach the Tiangong space station 6.5 hours after launch. Watch video: 🚀 China Launches Manned Shenzhou-18 Mission to Tiangong Space Station pic.twitter.com/SEoDk4J1BQ — RT_India (@RT_India_news) April 25, 2024 × Earlier in the day, a send-off ceremony was held for the crew members before the launch. The astronauts will stay at the China Space Station for six months and return to the Dongfeng landing site in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in October this year. Who are the three astronauts? The three Chinese astronauts are Ye Guangfu, Li Cong and Li Guangsu, all of them born in the 1980s. Watch: Blinken’s Visit to China: US Secy of State Antony Blinken holds meeting with top Shanghai official × The three persons will carry out six cargo outbound deliveries via the station's cargo airlock module and implement two to three extravehicular activities (EVAs). The mission The astronauts will “install space debris protection reinforcements for extravehicular piping, cables and critical equipment and carry out extravehicular inspections, as appropriate, to further safeguard the safety of the China Space Station,” announced the China Manned Space Agency. "During the Shenzhou-18 mission, experimental equipment and related samples will be taken to space, and the country's first in-orbit aquatic ecological research project will be implemented. Using zebrafish and hornwort to establish a self-cycling aquatic ecosystem in orbit, the project aims to make a breakthrough in the cultivation of vertebrates in space," Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, said on Wednesday. Also read: Blinken calls for US, China to manage differences `responsibly` "The world's first in-orbit stem cell study on the plant's stem tips will be made to reveal the mechanism of plant evolutionary adaptation to gravity and provide theoretical support for space cropping," Lin added. China began constructing its Tiangong space station in 2021, completing the T-shaped facility in late 2022. Since then, the space station has been hosting crews of three astronauts for periods of six months.

Watch: China launches manned spaceship to Tiangong space station for six months

Tiangong space station:&nbsp;The Chinese space agency has released first panoramic image of its Tiangong space station for the first time. The image shows the full stretch of the T-shaped space station with the solar panels unfurled to their fullest extent, and surface of the Earth in the background.

According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), this image of the Tiangong space station was taken by a Shenzhou 16 astronaut when the spacecraft was flying above the space station before its return to Earth.

Watch | Pneumonia outbreak in China: Here's everything we know

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The project to construct Tiangong space station began in 1992 and the actual construction started in 2021. There have been a few times the space station has been clickedbefore. But this time around, the Shenzhou 16 spacecraft made a special 'flyby' after undocking from the space station and clicked a picture from just a few hundred metres above it.

SCMP reported that the picture was clicked last month by Gui Haichao.&nbsp;

Gui is a researcher and a civilian astronaut.

The latest picture shows the full space station. The core module, named Tianhe, is at the centre. Mengtian and Wentian, the two laboratory modules are docked at either sides. Each of this laboratory modules has a pair of solar panels that are 55 metres in length.&nbsp;

The interesting thing is, these three modules were sent to space in separate launches and the assembly took place in the orbit.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-will-collide-with-moon-this-is-what-a-rogue-star-can-do-to-our-solar-system-664214">A rogue star can send Earth smashing into Moon, wiping out all life, study finds</a>

The Tiangong space station also has a 10-metre robotic arm. It is connected to the Wentian, one of the laboratory modules. There are slots in Mengtian, the other laboratory module, for exposure experiments.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/its-all-in-the-shape-science-reveals-what-makes-milky-way-unique-664255">It's all in the shape: Science reveals what makes Milky Way unique</a>

The Chinese space station is widely perceived to be a rival to the ageing International Space Station (ISS). The US severely restricted China's access to the International Space Station and China has been able to take a prject of its own space station to near completion. It is not yet fully clear how much international access will actually be afforded at the Tiangong space station. 
&nbsp;

Tiangong space station: The Chinese space agency has released first panoramic image of its Tiangong space station for the first time. The image shows the full stretch of the T-shaped space station with the solar panels unfurled to their fullest extent, and surface of the Earth in the background.

Tiangong space station: The Chinese space agency has released first panoramic image of its Tiangong space station for the first time. The image shows the full stretch of the T-shaped space station with the solar panels unfurled to their fullest extent, and surface of the Earth in the background. According to South China Morning Post (SCMP), this image of the Tiangong space station was taken by a Shenzhou 16 astronaut when the spacecraft was flying above the space station before its return to Earth. Watch | Pneumonia outbreak in China: Here's everything we know × The project to construct Tiangong space station began in 1992 and the actual construction started in 2021. There have been a few times the space station has been clickedbefore. But this time around, the Shenzhou 16 spacecraft made a special 'flyby' after undocking from the space station and clicked a picture from just a few hundred metres above it. SCMP reported that the picture was clicked last month by Gui Haichao. Gui is a researcher and a civilian astronaut. The latest picture shows the full space station. The core module, named Tianhe, is at the centre. Mengtian and Wentian, the two laboratory modules are docked at either sides. Each of this laboratory modules has a pair of solar panels that are 55 metres in length. The interesting thing is, these three modules were sent to space in separate launches and the assembly took place in the orbit. Also Read | A rogue star can send Earth smashing into Moon, wiping out all life, study finds The Tiangong space station also has a 10-metre robotic arm. It is connected to the Wentian, one of the laboratory modules. There are slots in Mengtian, the other laboratory module, for exposure experiments. Also Read | It's all in the shape: Science reveals what makes Milky Way unique The Chinese space station is widely perceived to be a rival to the ageing International Space Station (ISS). The US severely restricted China's access to the International Space Station and China has been able to take a prject of its own space station to near completion. It is not yet fully clear how much international access will actually be afforded at the Tiangong space station.

Tiangong space station: China releases beautiful panoramic image with fully visible structure

The recent return of astronauts from China’s Tiangong space station encountered an unsettling incident during their re-entry to Earth, as seen&nbsp;in live streaming footage of the landing. The Shenzhou 16 mission's return capsule, carrying three passengers who had spent 154 days in space witnessed a distressing moment as a sizable hole appeared in its main parachute when it was over the Gobi Desert in northern China.

The unexpected sight of a conspicuous breach in the parachute, allowing a view of the blue sky through the canopy, prompted concern among observers.

Speculation arose regarding potential causes, with space programme historian Jonathan McDowell suggesting that propellant venting might have caused the hole, or it could be a manufacturing flaw, reported The South China Morning Post.

Watch the video here:

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<h2>What exactly happened at the time of landing?</h2>

Despite the tear in the parachute, the situation did not worsen during the capsule's descent.&nbsp;

The returning crew, including China's first civilian astronauts on a space mission, eventually landed at the Dongfeng site at 8:11 am, though the capsule was observed bouncing and rolling upon landing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/china-approves-worlds-first-passenger-carrying-flying-taxi-652612">Also read |&nbsp;China approves world’s first passenger-carrying flying taxi</a>

Commander Jing Haipeng expressed relief at being back, confirming the crew's good health after medical checks on-site.

They were later flown to Beijing. Although Chinese space authorities hailed the mission as a success, they have not officially addressed the parachute malfunction, leaving the space community to speculate.

The incident, if confirmed, could mark one of the most serious safety breaches in crewed space missions, warranting a thorough investigation.

There's anticipation of additional work during the Spring Festival holiday to address the issue, as noted by a social media user.

Also watch |&nbsp;Why China's young are are not having more babies

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<h2>How does it reflect&nbsp;on space adventures?</h2>

China has historically upheld a cautious approach to space travel, especially when astronauts are involved. The country has a flawless safety record since its first crewed flight in 2003. The parachute-based re-entry method, while traditional, is deemed the most reliable for returning astronauts.

The Shenzhou 16 crew, during their stay at the Tiangong space station, engaged in various scientific experiments, educational outreach, and a significant eight-hour spacewalk.&nbsp;

These findings shed light on the complexities and strengths of the parachute systems used in China’s space missions, offering crucial insights into safety and potential improvements for future missions. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The recent return of astronauts from China’s Tiangong space station encountered an unsettling incident during their re-entry to Earth, as seen in live streaming footage of the landing.

The recent return of astronauts from China’s Tiangong space station encountered an unsettling incident during their re-entry to Earth, as seen in live streaming footage of the landing. The Shenzhou 16 mission's return capsule, carrying three passengers who had spent 154 days in space witnessed a distressing moment as a sizable hole appeared in its main parachute when it was over the Gobi Desert in northern China. The unexpected sight of a conspicuous breach in the parachute, allowing a view of the blue sky through the canopy, prompted concern among observers. Speculation arose regarding potential causes, with space programme historian Jonathan McDowell suggesting that propellant venting might have caused the hole, or it could be a manufacturing flaw, reported The South China Morning Post. Watch the video here: × What exactly happened at the time of landing? Despite the tear in the parachute, the situation did not worsen during the capsule's descent. The returning crew, including China's first civilian astronauts on a space mission, eventually landed at the Dongfeng site at 8:11 am, though the capsule was observed bouncing and rolling upon landing. Also read | China approves world’s first passenger-carrying flying taxi Commander Jing Haipeng expressed relief at being back, confirming the crew's good health after medical checks on-site. They were later flown to Beijing. Although Chinese space authorities hailed the mission as a success, they have not officially addressed the parachute malfunction, leaving the space community to speculate. The incident, if confirmed, could mark one of the most serious safety breaches in crewed space missions, warranting a thorough investigation. There's anticipation of additional work during the Spring Festival holiday to address the issue, as noted by a social media user. Also watch | Why China's young are are not having more babies How does it reflect on space adventures? China has historically upheld a cautious approach to space travel, especially when astronauts are involved. The country has a flawless safety record since its first crewed flight in 2003. The parachute-based re-entry method, while traditional, is deemed the most reliable for returning astronauts. The Shenzhou 16 crew, during their stay at the Tiangong space station, engaged in various scientific experiments, educational outreach, and a significant eight-hour spacewalk. These findings shed light on the complexities and strengths of the parachute systems used in China’s space missions, offering crucial insights into safety and potential improvements for future missions. (With inputs from agencies)

China: Sizeable hole spotted in parachute used by astronauts landing from Tiangong space station. Watch

China has been planning to expand its space station from three to six modules in coming years and is touting it as an alternative to the NASA-led International Space Station's (ISS) for near-Earth missions to astronauts from other countries. The space station is being expanded by China as the ISS nears the end of its lifespan.

The Chinese space station's operational lifetime will be more than 15 years, said the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), a unit of the main space contractor of China, during the 74th International Astronautical Congress in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Wednesday (Oct 4).&nbsp;

The lifetime announced is 10 years more than announced previously.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-vying-to-control-pakistani-media-with-the-help-of-proposed-nerve-centre-us-report-642774">China vying to control Pakistani media with the help of proposed 'nerve centre': US report</a>

The self-built space station of China, which is known as Tiangong or Celestial Palace in Chinese, has been fully operational since late 2022 and hosted three astronauts at an orbital altitude of up to 450 km (280 miles).&nbsp;

After the expansion to six modules, Tiangong at 180 metric tonnes is still only 40 per cent of the mass of the ISS, which can manage to keep only seven astronauts.&nbsp;

<h2>ISS to be decommissioned after 2030</h2>

However, the ISS, which has been in orbit for more than two decades, is likely to be decommissioned after 2030, around the same time China has stated that it aims to become "a major space power".

Last year, Chinese state media said that as Tiangong became fully operational, the country would be no "slouch" as the ISS moved towards retirement, adding that "several countries" had requested to accommodate their astronauts on the Chinese station.

But in a blow to aspirations of China for space diplomacy, the European Space Agency (ESA) stated that it did not have the budgetary or "political" green light this year to participate in Tiangong, dropping a years-long plan of a visit by European astronauts.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 55 Chinese soldiers allegedly died after getting ensnared in a Chinese trap

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"Giving up cooperation with China in the manned space domain is clearly short-sighted, which reveals that the U.S.-led camp confrontation has led to a new space race," wrote the Global Times, a nationalist Chinese tabloid, at the time.&nbsp;

Tiangong is a symbol of the growing confidence of China in its space endeavours and has emerged as a challenger to the United States in the domain after it was isolated from the ISS.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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China has been planning to expand its space station from three to six modules in coming years and is touting it as an alternative to the NASA-led International Space Station's (ISS) for near-Earth missions to astronauts from other countries.

China has been planning to expand its space station from three to six modules in coming years and is touting it as an alternative to the NASA-led International Space Station's (ISS) for near-Earth missions to astronauts from other countries. The space station is being expanded by China as the ISS nears the end of its lifespan. The Chinese space station's operational lifetime will be more than 15 years, said the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), a unit of the main space contractor of China, during the 74th International Astronautical Congress in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Wednesday (Oct 4). The lifetime announced is 10 years more than announced previously. ALSO READ | China vying to control Pakistani media with the help of proposed 'nerve centre': US report The self-built space station of China, which is known as Tiangong or Celestial Palace in Chinese, has been fully operational since late 2022 and hosted three astronauts at an orbital altitude of up to 450 km (280 miles). After the expansion to six modules, Tiangong at 180 metric tonnes is still only 40 per cent of the mass of the ISS, which can manage to keep only seven astronauts. ISS to be decommissioned after 2030 However, the ISS, which has been in orbit for more than two decades, is likely to be decommissioned after 2030, around the same time China has stated that it aims to become "a major space power". Last year, Chinese state media said that as Tiangong became fully operational, the country would be no "slouch" as the ISS moved towards retirement, adding that "several countries" had requested to accommodate their astronauts on the Chinese station. But in a blow to aspirations of China for space diplomacy, the European Space Agency (ESA) stated that it did not have the budgetary or "political" green light this year to participate in Tiangong, dropping a years-long plan of a visit by European astronauts. WATCH | Gravitas: 55 Chinese soldiers allegedly died after getting ensnared in a Chinese trap "Giving up cooperation with China in the manned space domain is clearly short-sighted, which reveals that the U.S.-led camp confrontation has led to a new space race," wrote the Global Times, a nationalist Chinese tabloid, at the time. Tiangong is a symbol of the growing confidence of China in its space endeavours and has emerged as a challenger to the United States in the domain after it was isolated from the ISS. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China's space plans include a massive space station to replace NASA's ageing ISS

Chinese astronauts on board China's Tiangong space station have lit a candle with a match during a live broadcast, which was said to be impossible and dangerous too.&nbsp;

During a live lecture broadcast from the space station on Sep 21, two astronauts - Gui Haichao and Zhu Yangzhu - lit a candle in order to show how flames burn in microgravity.&nbsp;

To amaze all those who were watching, the flames appear virtually spherical, rather than the teardrop-shaped flames, which we see on Earth.&nbsp;

Some were even stunned as the International Space Station (ISS) has strict rules regarding flammable materials and open flames.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indian-air-force-shares-first-look-of-indias-isro-gaganyaan-astronauts-642235">Indian Air Force shares 'first-look' of India's ISRO Gaganyaan Astronauts</a>&nbsp;

As quoted in the video provided by China Central Television (CCTV), Gui said: "You can see that the flame of a candle in the space station burns in a spherical shape, while in comparison, the flame of a candle burns in a cone shape when the candle is upright on Earth."&nbsp;

Last month, the Chinese astronauts delivered a few live lectures from space, giving young viewers an insight into their lives in orbit.&nbsp;

The Chinese space agency said that the astronauts gave an introduction to their working and living environment in the space station's Mengtian lab module.&nbsp;

The astronauts also invited their audience to participate in experiments to explore the mysteries of the universe and identify differences between experiments on Earth and in space.

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Light up a candle in space! Compared to tongue-like-shaped flame on Earth, the candle flame formed a small fireball in an experiment conducted by China's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shenzhou16?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shenzhou16</a> crew during the space lecture on Thursday. This phenomenon occurs due to microgravity's elimination of buoyancy. <a href="https://t.co/C9VyRQb0vh">pic.twitter.com/C9VyRQb0vh</a>
— China Science (@ChinaScience) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaScience/status/1704783136473985316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Chinese astronauts on the Tiangong space station use matches to ignite a candle, allowing them to observe the flame's behavior in a unique microgravity environment. <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/roscosmos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@roscosmos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TOIIndiaNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TOIIndiaNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/moneycontrolcom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moneycontrolcom</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/the_hindu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@the_hindu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DainikBhaskar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DainikBhaskar</a> <a href="https://t.co/xb7HPvf2Vy">pic.twitter.com/xb7HPvf2Vy</a>
— Sourabh Chauhan (@sourabhrchauhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/sourabhrchauhan/status/1708402302527381963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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They also conducted a series of entertaining experiments aboard the Tiangong space station, such as a spherical flame experiment, a water droplet "table tennis" experiment, a momentum conservation experiment, and a gyroscope experiment. But the one when they lit a candle became the highlight.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/heres-how-russias-moon-mission-lost-out-to-indias-chandrayaan-3-642201">Here's how Russia's Moon mission lost out to India's Chandrayaan-3</a>

Astronauts also had real-time interactions with the teachers and students on Earth during the lecture.

Zhao Ziyi, a student from Beihang University, said: "I am so proud to see our professor Gui giving a lecture in the space station. As one of the first batch of students in Beihang University's special plan on aerospace mechanics, I will work harder to devote myself to the construction of basic disciplines, follow in the footsteps of astronauts, and realize our dream to give back to our motherland with aerospace development."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese astronauts on board China's Tiangong space station have lit a candle with a match during a live broadcast, which was said to be impossible and dangerous too.

Chinese astronauts on board China's Tiangong space station have lit a candle with a match during a live broadcast, which was said to be impossible and dangerous too. During a live lecture broadcast from the space station on Sep 21, two astronauts - Gui Haichao and Zhu Yangzhu - lit a candle in order to show how flames burn in microgravity. To amaze all those who were watching, the flames appear virtually spherical, rather than the teardrop-shaped flames, which we see on Earth. Some were even stunned as the International Space Station (ISS) has strict rules regarding flammable materials and open flames. Also read: Indian Air Force shares 'first-look' of India's ISRO Gaganyaan Astronauts As quoted in the video provided by China Central Television (CCTV), Gui said: "You can see that the flame of a candle in the space station burns in a spherical shape, while in comparison, the flame of a candle burns in a cone shape when the candle is upright on Earth." Last month, the Chinese astronauts delivered a few live lectures from space, giving young viewers an insight into their lives in orbit. The Chinese space agency said that the astronauts gave an introduction to their working and living environment in the space station's Mengtian lab module. The astronauts also invited their audience to participate in experiments to explore the mysteries of the universe and identify differences between experiments on Earth and in space. Light up a candle in space! Compared to tongue-like-shaped flame on Earth, the candle flame formed a small fireball in an experiment conducted by China's #Shenzhou16 crew during the space lecture on Thursday. This phenomenon occurs due to microgravity's elimination of buoyancy. pic.twitter.com/C9VyRQb0vh — China Science (@ChinaScience) September 21, 2023 × Chinese astronauts on the Tiangong space station use matches to ignite a candle, allowing them to observe the flame's behavior in a unique microgravity environment. @NASA @isro @roscosmos @TOIIndiaNews @moneycontrolcom @the_hindu @DainikBhaskar pic.twitter.com/xb7HPvf2Vy — Sourabh Chauhan (@sourabhrchauhan) October 1, 2023 × They also conducted a series of entertaining experiments aboard the Tiangong space station, such as a spherical flame experiment, a water droplet "table tennis" experiment, a momentum conservation experiment, and a gyroscope experiment. But the one when they lit a candle became the highlight. Also read: Here's how Russia's Moon mission lost out to India's Chandrayaan-3 Astronauts also had real-time interactions with the teachers and students on Earth during the lecture. Zhao Ziyi, a student from Beihang University, said: "I am so proud to see our professor Gui giving a lecture in the space station. As one of the first batch of students in Beihang University's special plan on aerospace mechanics, I will work harder to devote myself to the construction of basic disciplines, follow in the footsteps of astronauts, and realize our dream to give back to our motherland with aerospace development." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese astronauts light match on Tiangong space station. Watch what happened next

China is dreaming big with its mission of Tiangong space station, a permanent crewed space station operated by China Manned Space Agency in low Earth orbit.&nbsp;

But Beijing's giant leap in space witnessed challenges. The latest report by The South China Morning Post said that Indian scientists have ended in a deadlock in their attempt to ship a scientific instrument, which will apparently be used Tiangong space station.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that about a year ago, a team from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bangalore applied for an export permit from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs for the Spectroscopic Investigations of Nebular Gas (SING) device.&nbsp;

Alsro read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-evacuate-village-ahead-of-first-lunar-mission-launch-in-50-years-this-week-heres-why-623156">Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years, this week: Here's why</a>&nbsp;

As quoted, project leader and astrophysicist Jayant Murthy said that the "team has not heard of any progress since. “We completed everything two months ago. The instrument is now sitting in the clean room, ready to fly".&nbsp;

Murthy, the research partner with the Tiangong Space Station, added, "I've been told that our application is being processed and that it has not been approved yet."&nbsp;

He also said that the device was supposed to arrive in China last year to be launched in mid-2023, but had been delayed due to COVID-19 (coronavirus).&nbsp;

The SCMP report mentioned that the device, SING, was selected by the China Manned Space Agency and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. It is meant to be one of nine international experiments carried out on board Tiangong.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>What is SING?&nbsp;</h2>

Experts have said that SING is a small spectrograph payload designed to observe extended sources over a wide ﬁeld of view (FOV) in the NUV range from 1400 to 2700. Unlike the previous missions, such as IUE or FUSE which were more focused on point sources, SING will perform spectroscopy over a wide ﬁeld of the diﬀused sources in the sky with medium spectral resolution.&nbsp;

Murthy said that issues related to space became sensitive when it came to space, and the tense India-China ties didn't help much.&nbsp;

He said, "I've tried to explain that our instrument would be pointing up towards the sky, and not looking down at the Earth at all, but that apparently did not work."&nbsp;

He also said that some experiments, which are being developed in Europe, were also facing export clearance problems.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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China is dreaming big with its mission of Tiangong space station, a permanent crewed space station operated by China Manned Space Agency in low Earth orbit. But Beijing's giant leap in space witnessed challenges.

China is dreaming big with its mission of Tiangong space station, a permanent crewed space station operated by China Manned Space Agency in low Earth orbit. But Beijing's giant leap in space witnessed challenges. The latest report by The South China Morning Post said that Indian scientists have ended in a deadlock in their attempt to ship a scientific instrument, which will apparently be used Tiangong space station. The report mentioned that about a year ago, a team from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bangalore applied for an export permit from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs for the Spectroscopic Investigations of Nebular Gas (SING) device. Alsro read: Russia to evacuate village ahead of first lunar mission launch in 50 years, this week: Here's why As quoted, project leader and astrophysicist Jayant Murthy said that the "team has not heard of any progress since. “We completed everything two months ago. The instrument is now sitting in the clean room, ready to fly". Murthy, the research partner with the Tiangong Space Station, added, "I've been told that our application is being processed and that it has not been approved yet." He also said that the device was supposed to arrive in China last year to be launched in mid-2023, but had been delayed due to COVID-19 (coronavirus). The SCMP report mentioned that the device, SING, was selected by the China Manned Space Agency and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. It is meant to be one of nine international experiments carried out on board Tiangong. Watch this report: × Also read: Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it a new lineage of humans? What is SING? Experts have said that SING is a small spectrograph payload designed to observe extended sources over a wide ﬁeld of view (FOV) in the NUV range from 1400 to 2700. Unlike the previous missions, such as IUE or FUSE which were more focused on point sources, SING will perform spectroscopy over a wide ﬁeld of the diﬀused sources in the sky with medium spectral resolution. Murthy said that issues related to space became sensitive when it came to space, and the tense India-China ties didn't help much. He said, "I've tried to explain that our instrument would be pointing up towards the sky, and not looking down at the Earth at all, but that apparently did not work." He also said that some experiments, which are being developed in Europe, were also facing export clearance problems. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Export challenges delay Indian equipment meant for Chinese space station

China on Tuesday (May 30) sent three astronauts to its Tiangong space station including a civilian scientist, a first for the country. The liftoff has come as China pursues plans for a manned mission to the Moon by 2030. The Shenzhou-16 crew lifted off atop a Long March 2F rocket. The launch took place from the Jiquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China. The rocket lifted off&nbsp;at 9:31 am local time (0131 GMT), AFP reported.

Jing Haipeng is the mission commander. This is his fourth trip off the Earth. Accompanying him are engineer Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, a Beihang University professor and first Chinese civilian in space.

China is spending billions of dollars on its military-run space programme and trying to catch up with the US and Russia.

The Tiangong is a crown jewel of China's space programme, landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. It has also made China the third country to put humans in orbit.

The mission is the first to the Tiangong space station since it entered its "application and development" stage, Beijing said.

<h2>The mission timeline</h2>

Once it reaches the orbit the Shenzhou-16 will dock at Tiangong space station's Tianhe core module before the crew meet three colleagues from the previous manned Shenzhou-15 flight, who have been at the space station for six months and will return to Earth in the coming days.

The mission will "carry out large-scale, in-orbit experiments... in the study of novel quantum phenomena, high-precision space time-frequency systems, the verification of general relativity, and the origin of life," CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang told reporters on Monday.

A fresh supply of drinking water, food, clothing and propellant was made to the space station this month in order to make it ready for Shenzhou-16's arrival.

AFP quoted an expert who said that Tuesday's flight was "a regular crew rotation flight as one crew hands over to another", but even that was significant.

"Accumulating depth of experience in human spaceflight operations is important and doesn't involve new spectacular milestones all the time," said Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer and astrophysicist at the Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.

China is aiming to build a base on the Moon. On Monday, CMSA spokesman Lin reaffirmed China's plan of landing a manned mission on the Moon by 2030.

"The overall goal is to achieve China's first manned landing on the Moon by 2030 and carry out lunar scientific exploration and related technological experiments," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China on Tuesday (May 30) sent three astronauts to its Tiangong space station including a civilian scientist, a first for the country. The liftoff has come as China pursues plans for a manned mission to the Moon by 2030.

China on Tuesday (May 30) sent three astronauts to its Tiangong space station including a civilian scientist, a first for the country. The liftoff has come as China pursues plans for a manned mission to the Moon by 2030. The Shenzhou-16 crew lifted off atop a Long March 2F rocket. The launch took place from the Jiquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China. The rocket lifted off at 9:31 am local time (0131 GMT), AFP reported. Jing Haipeng is the mission commander. This is his fourth trip off the Earth. Accompanying him are engineer Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, a Beihang University professor and first Chinese civilian in space. China is spending billions of dollars on its military-run space programme and trying to catch up with the US and Russia. The Tiangong is a crown jewel of China's space programme, landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. It has also made China the third country to put humans in orbit. The mission is the first to the Tiangong space station since it entered its "application and development" stage, Beijing said. The mission timeline Once it reaches the orbit the Shenzhou-16 will dock at Tiangong space station's Tianhe core module before the crew meet three colleagues from the previous manned Shenzhou-15 flight, who have been at the space station for six months and will return to Earth in the coming days. The mission will "carry out large-scale, in-orbit experiments... in the study of novel quantum phenomena, high-precision space time-frequency systems, the verification of general relativity, and the origin of life," CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang told reporters on Monday. A fresh supply of drinking water, food, clothing and propellant was made to the space station this month in order to make it ready for Shenzhou-16's arrival. AFP quoted an expert who said that Tuesday's flight was "a regular crew rotation flight as one crew hands over to another", but even that was significant. "Accumulating depth of experience in human spaceflight operations is important and doesn't involve new spectacular milestones all the time," said Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer and astrophysicist at the Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. China is aiming to build a base on the Moon. On Monday, CMSA spokesman Lin reaffirmed China's plan of landing a manned mission on the Moon by 2030. "The overall goal is to achieve China's first manned landing on the Moon by 2030 and carry out lunar scientific exploration and related technological experiments," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China sends first civilian to space with Shenzhou-16 liftoff

Three Chinese astronauts are on their way to China's Tiangong space station and the crew includes a civilian for the first time. The trio took off aboard the Henzhou 16 craft from the Jiu-Quan satellite launch center in northwest China. The crew will stay in the space station for about five months.

In a first, China sends a civilian to space to stay at Tiangong space station

February 10&nbsp;marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission. The Chinese rover has been in "hibernation" for months. It was supposed to wake up back in December of last year. However, almost two months later, its slumber still continues. Last month, a report expressed hope that Zhurong would come out of its sleep, but recent images from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter show that it hasn't changed its position for five months.

Watch |&nbsp;This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change

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As per NASA, the rover hasn't moved since September 2022. The space agency's office at the University of Arizona which manages the HiRISE camera released a series of images, which show that Zhurong has not changed its position between September 8, 2022 and February 7,&nbsp;2023.

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HiPOD: Monitoring the Zhurong Rover 
 
The Chinese Zhurong rover has been on Mars since 14 May 2021, and MRO/HiRISE has imaged it several times to track its progress and monitor the surface for changes. 
 
For full cutout: <a href="https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9">https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9</a> 
 
NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mars</a> <a href="https://t.co/EzER3I5Q4Y">pic.twitter.com/EzER3I5Q4Y</a>
— HiRISE: Beautiful Mars (NASA) (@HiRISE) <a href="https://twitter.com/HiRISE/status/1628032187181281283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-zhurongs-slumber-continues-for-months-has-chinas-mars-rover-fallen-silent-forever-554018">Explained | Zhurong's slumber continues for months. Has China's Mars rover fallen 'silent' forever?</a>

The rover entered its hibernation mode way back on May 18,&nbsp;2022, to survive barren Mars' harsh winter months. During winter on the red planet, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius).

As per Jia Yang, Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, the rover would wake up when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/men-are-from-mars-women-are-from-venus-which-one-should-humans-visit-first-520603">'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first?</a>

However, it is possible that due to Mars' sand storms, Zhurong which uses solar arrays for energy might be unable to do so. Dust may be hindering the rover's arrays. Even if it never wakes up, the rover has already achieved significant things; it successfully completed one year of operations, for which it was also presented with the International Astronautical Federation's annual space achievement award in September 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

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February 10 marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission.

February 10 marked the second anniversary of China's ambitious Tianwen 1 mission — which also happens to be the nation's first interplanetary mission. Amid the celebration, one voice remained silent, that of China's Zhurong Mars rover, which was sent to the surface of the red planet as part of Beijing's Tianwen 1 mission. The Chinese rover has been in "hibernation" for months. It was supposed to wake up back in December of last year. However, almost two months later, its slumber still continues. Last month, a report expressed hope that Zhurong would come out of its sleep, but recent images from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter show that it hasn't changed its position for five months. Watch | This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change As per NASA, the rover hasn't moved since September 2022. The space agency's office at the University of Arizona which manages the HiRISE camera released a series of images, which show that Zhurong has not changed its position between September 8, 2022 and February 7, 2023. HiPOD: Monitoring the Zhurong Rover The Chinese Zhurong rover has been on Mars since 14 May 2021, and MRO/HiRISE has imaged it several times to track its progress and monitor the surface for changes. For full cutout: https://t.co/WKCpyrbqI9 NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona#Mars pic.twitter.com/EzER3I5Q4Y — HiRISE: Beautiful Mars (NASA) (@HiRISE) February 21, 2023 × Also read | Explained | Zhurong's slumber continues for months. Has China's Mars rover fallen 'silent' forever? The rover entered its hibernation mode way back on May 18, 2022, to survive barren Mars' harsh winter months. During winter on the red planet, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius). As per Jia Yang, Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, the rover would wake up when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius). Also read | 'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first? However, it is possible that due to Mars' sand storms, Zhurong which uses solar arrays for energy might be unable to do so. Dust may be hindering the rover's arrays. Even if it never wakes up, the rover has already achieved significant things; it successfully completed one year of operations, for which it was also presented with the International Astronautical Federation's annual space achievement award in September 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Five months and counting...NASA images show China's Mars rover 'Zhurong' hasn't moved

It’s been months since China’s Zhurong Mars rover entered a “hibernation” to wait out the cold and harsh winter on planet&nbsp;Mars’ northern hemisphere and its alien landscape. However, the slumber which was planned to end in December of last year still continues. Now the question is, will the rover ever wake up? There’s still hope.

What is Zhurong?

Zhurong is part of Tianwen 1, China’s ambitious Mars mission, and the nation’s first interplanetary mission. The mission, which includes a Mars rover, touched down on the Red Planet’s Utopian Planitia in May of the year 2021.

Watch |&nbsp;This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change

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Why is a rover ‘sleeping’?&nbsp;

Following its landing, it conducted a range of scientific and exploration activities before retreating into a so-called hibernation or dormant state to survive the barren planet’s winter, during which, as per space.com, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius).&nbsp;

It went to sleep on May 18 of last year.

What conditions are needed for it to wake up?

Talking to reporters in September 2022, Jia Yang, a Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, revealed that Zhurong would wake up by itself when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/men-are-from-mars-women-are-from-venus-which-one-should-humans-visit-first-520603">'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first?</a>

When was it supposed to rise up again?

Zhurong slumber was expected to end in December when the red planet experiences its spring equinox. However, this did not happen. So far, it’s just silence.

What went wrong?

As per a January 9 report by Space News, China’s first interplanetary mission may be in trouble “with the rover potentially lost on the surface after winter hibernation”. There is also speculation that maybe the temperatures just aren’t warm enough.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/humans-yet-to-set-foot-on-mars-yet-the-red-planet-is-already-littered-with-7000-kgs-of-our-trash-519541">Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash</a>

What is the temperature on Mars currently?

As per NASA’s Perseverance Rover, which is also wandering Mars’s surface, the temperature in the planet’s Jezero Crater has only briefly risen higher than Zhurong’s lowest heat requirement.&nbsp;

But given that Perseverance is nearer to the red planet’s equator - located around seven degrees latitude south of its Chinese counterpart - it may be experiencing slightly more favourable conditions than Zhurong.

How is Perseverance awake?

NASA's 2020 rover Perseverance, meanwhile, is not asleep. It is nuclear-powered and doesn’t need to hibernate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-sample-collection-risks-bringing-to-earth-deadly-alien-virus-heres-what-you-should-know-478730">Mars sample collection risks bringing to Earth deadly alien virus. Here's what you should know</a>

What else could be plaguing the Chinese rover?

Zhurong generates its power using solar arrays. Mars is known for its sand storms and there is concern that the dust from them may be hindering the rover and its solar arrays’ ability to generate power.

While Zhurong’s panels are made using anti-dust material and it has a vibration setting to shake off the dust, even that feature requires some power. The rover has to be active to “shake it off”.

What now?

The rover's mission with which China achieved the status of being the second country to reach the surface of Mars is already a great success.

But only time can tell if it will wake up to achieve bigger and better things.

(With inputs from agencies)

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It’s been months since China’s Zhurong Mars rover entered a “hibernation” to wait out the cold and harsh winter on planet Mars’ northern hemisphere and its alien landscape.

It’s been months since China’s Zhurong Mars rover entered a “hibernation” to wait out the cold and harsh winter on planet Mars’ northern hemisphere and its alien landscape. However, the slumber which was planned to end in December of last year still continues. Now the question is, will the rover ever wake up? There’s still hope. What is Zhurong? Zhurong is part of Tianwen 1, China’s ambitious Mars mission, and the nation’s first interplanetary mission. The mission, which includes a Mars rover, touched down on the Red Planet’s Utopian Planitia in May of the year 2021. Watch | This study suggests ancient Mars was also hit by climate change Why is a rover ‘sleeping’? Following its landing, it conducted a range of scientific and exploration activities before retreating into a so-called hibernation or dormant state to survive the barren planet’s winter, during which, as per space.com, temperatures can fall down to minus 195 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 125 degrees Celsius). It went to sleep on May 18 of last year. What conditions are needed for it to wake up? Talking to reporters in September 2022, Jia Yang, a Tianwen 1 mission deputy chief designer, revealed that Zhurong would wake up by itself when two conditions are met: it can generate energy greater than 140 watts and the planet’s temperature, or rather the region where the rover is, reaches the somewhat warmer, 5 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 15 degrees Celsius). Also read | 'Men are from Mars, women are from Venus', which planet should humans visit first? When was it supposed to rise up again? Zhurong slumber was expected to end in December when the red planet experiences its spring equinox. However, this did not happen. So far, it’s just silence. What went wrong? As per a January 9 report by Space News, China’s first interplanetary mission may be in trouble “with the rover potentially lost on the surface after winter hibernation”. There is also speculation that maybe the temperatures just aren’t warm enough. Also read | Humans yet to set foot on Mars, but the red planet is already 'littered' with 7000 kg of our trash What is the temperature on Mars currently? As per NASA’s Perseverance Rover, which is also wandering Mars’s surface, the temperature in the planet’s Jezero Crater has only briefly risen higher than Zhurong’s lowest heat requirement. But given that Perseverance is nearer to the red planet’s equator - located around seven degrees latitude south of its Chinese counterpart - it may be experiencing slightly more favourable conditions than Zhurong. How is Perseverance awake? NASA's 2020 rover Perseverance, meanwhile, is not asleep. It is nuclear-powered and doesn’t need to hibernate. Also read | Mars sample collection risks bringing to Earth deadly alien virus. Here's what you should know What else could be plaguing the Chinese rover? Zhurong generates its power using solar arrays. Mars is known for its sand storms and there is concern that the dust from them may be hindering the rover and its solar arrays’ ability to generate power. While Zhurong’s panels are made using anti-dust material and it has a vibration setting to shake off the dust, even that feature requires some power. The rover has to be active to “shake it off”. What now? The rover's mission with which China achieved the status of being the second country to reach the surface of Mars is already a great success. But only time can tell if it will wake up to achieve bigger and better things. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Zhurong's slumber continues for months. Has China's Mars rover fallen 'silent' forever?

China launches commemorative gold and silver coins to celebrate completion of Tiangong space station

After successfully completing a six-month mission aboard the space station of China, three Chinese astronauts finally landed back on earth.

On June 5, the astronauts left for space to oversee the Tiangong space station’s final construction stage, which got completed in November. While returning, the astronauts were onboard the Shenzhou-14 spacecraft’s re-entry capsule which landed safely at the Dongfeng site in Inner Mongolia.&nbsp;

The three astronauts, commander Chen Dong along with teammates Cai Xuzhe and Liu Yang, after landing said that they feeling good. The tired crew was carried out by the staff at the landing site. The mission was declared a "complete success” by the space agency of China.

Meanwhile, in space, three spacewalks were carried out by the three astronauts to test and check the new facilities. The astronauts also oversaw the arrival of Tiangong’s second and third modules.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-was-a-man-made-virus-leaked-from-chinese-lab-claims-wuhan-scientist-in-his-new-book-540159">'COVID-19 was a man-made virus leaked from Chinese lab,' claims Wuhan scientist in his new book</a>

On Wednesday, a new crew consisting of three Chinese astronauts will make its first in-orbit crew handover. The crew had boarded the Shenzhou-15 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre which is located in north-west China’s Gobi Desert.

The astronauts will be living for six months in the station. This will be the second such outpost which is permanently inhabited, after the International Space Station led by Nasa, which had excluded China in 2011.

The crew will work on the installation of facilities and equipment around the space station, the China Manned Space Administration’s spokesperson said.

Tiangong space station, also known as "Heavenly Palace", is the new permanent space station in China. Previously, two temporary trial space stations called Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2 were launched by the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After successfully completing a six-month mission aboard the space station of China, three Chinese astronauts finally landed back on earth. On June 5, the astronauts left for space to oversee the Tiangong space station’s final construction stage, which got completed in November.

After successfully completing a six-month mission aboard the space station of China, three Chinese astronauts finally landed back on earth. On June 5, the astronauts left for space to oversee the Tiangong space station’s final construction stage, which got completed in November. While returning, the astronauts were onboard the Shenzhou-14 spacecraft’s re-entry capsule which landed safely at the Dongfeng site in Inner Mongolia. The three astronauts, commander Chen Dong along with teammates Cai Xuzhe and Liu Yang, after landing said that they feeling good. The tired crew was carried out by the staff at the landing site. The mission was declared a "complete success” by the space agency of China. Meanwhile, in space, three spacewalks were carried out by the three astronauts to test and check the new facilities. The astronauts also oversaw the arrival of Tiangong’s second and third modules. ALSO READ| 'COVID-19 was a man-made virus leaked from Chinese lab,' claims Wuhan scientist in his new book On Wednesday, a new crew consisting of three Chinese astronauts will make its first in-orbit crew handover. The crew had boarded the Shenzhou-15 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre which is located in north-west China’s Gobi Desert. The astronauts will be living for six months in the station. This will be the second such outpost which is permanently inhabited, after the International Space Station led by Nasa, which had excluded China in 2011. The crew will work on the installation of facilities and equipment around the space station, the China Manned Space Administration’s spokesperson said. Tiangong space station, also known as "Heavenly Palace", is the new permanent space station in China. Previously, two temporary trial space stations called Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2 were launched by the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese astronauts land back on Earth after a six-month mission

China's spacecraft Shenzhou-15, carrying three astronauts, successfully reached the Tiangong space station on Wednesday, hours after being&nbsp;launched from the Gobi Desert in northwest China late Tuesday.&nbsp;

A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the spacecraft, lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gansu Province at 11:08 PM (local time) Tuesday.&nbsp;

The mission is China's first-ever crew handover in orbit.&nbsp;Ahead of the launch, the Chinese space agency said at a news conference that the team is led by veteran Fei Junlong and two first-time astronauts Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu.&nbsp;

Previously, Fei commanded the Shenzhou-6 mission in 2005. The 57-year-old is returning to space after 17 years. His team will join three other astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station, who arrived in early June.&nbsp;

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China launches the Shenzhou-15 spacecraft carrying three astronauts to its newly completed Tiangong space station for a six month-long stay, formally kicking off operation of the second permanently inhabited outpost in low-earth orbit. <a href="https://t.co/A9qW9FAUZ0">https://t.co/A9qW9FAUZ0</a>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1597589823631462400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A well-placed camera at the Jiuquan launch base in northwestern China caught a spectacular view of the Long March 2F rocket flying by the moon on the way to low Earth orbit with three astronauts on the Shenzhou 15 mission. <a href="https://t.co/kKiruS4ZKb">https://t.co/kKiruS4ZKb</a> <a href="https://t.co/4XxW0hcF5c">pic.twitter.com/4XxW0hcF5c</a>
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Ji Qiming, a spokesman for CMSA said: "The... main responsibilities for the mission are.. achieving the first crew-handover in orbit, installing... equipment and facilities inside and outside the space station and carrying out scientific experiments."&nbsp;

"During the stay, the Shenzhou-15 crew will welcome the visiting Tianzhou-6 cargo ship and hand over (operations to) the Shenzhou-16 manned spaceship, and are planning to return to China's Dongfeng landing site in May next year."&nbsp;

What do we know about the Tiangong space station?&nbsp;

Tiangong space station is constructed by China and operated by CMSA in low Earth orbit between 340 and 450 km above the surface. It is one of the most important parts of Beijing's ambitious space programme.&nbsp;

China aimed to land robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. With the launch of three people into the pace, China became the third country to put humans in orbit.&nbsp;

Bejing is also looking forward to catching up with major spacefaring powers, the United States and Russia. The Chinese state media said that Tiangong's final module successfully docked with the core structure earlier this month, as the nation expects the completion by year's end.&nbsp;

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China's spacecraft Shenzhou-15, carrying three astronauts, successfully reached the Tiangong space station on Wednesday, hours after being launched from the Gobi Desert in northwest China late Tuesday.

China's spacecraft Shenzhou-15, carrying three astronauts, successfully reached the Tiangong space station on Wednesday, hours after being launched from the Gobi Desert in northwest China late Tuesday. A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the spacecraft, lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gansu Province at 11:08 PM (local time) Tuesday. The mission is China's first-ever crew handover in orbit. Ahead of the launch, the Chinese space agency said at a news conference that the team is led by veteran Fei Junlong and two first-time astronauts Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu. Previously, Fei commanded the Shenzhou-6 mission in 2005. The 57-year-old is returning to space after 17 years. His team will join three other astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station, who arrived in early June. China launches the Shenzhou-15 spacecraft carrying three astronauts to its newly completed Tiangong space station for a six month-long stay, formally kicking off operation of the second permanently inhabited outpost in low-earth orbit. https://t.co/A9qW9FAUZ0 — Reuters (@Reuters) November 29, 2022 × A well-placed camera at the Jiuquan launch base in northwestern China caught a spectacular view of the Long March 2F rocket flying by the moon on the way to low Earth orbit with three astronauts on the Shenzhou 15 mission. https://t.co/kKiruS4ZKb pic.twitter.com/4XxW0hcF5c — Spaceflight Now (@SpaceflightNow) November 29, 2022 × Ji Qiming, a spokesman for CMSA said: "The... main responsibilities for the mission are.. achieving the first crew-handover in orbit, installing... equipment and facilities inside and outside the space station and carrying out scientific experiments." "During the stay, the Shenzhou-15 crew will welcome the visiting Tianzhou-6 cargo ship and hand over (operations to) the Shenzhou-16 manned spaceship, and are planning to return to China's Dongfeng landing site in May next year." What do we know about the Tiangong space station? Tiangong space station is constructed by China and operated by CMSA in low Earth orbit between 340 and 450 km above the surface. It is one of the most important parts of Beijing's ambitious space programme. China aimed to land robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. With the launch of three people into the pace, China became the third country to put humans in orbit. Bejing is also looking forward to catching up with major spacefaring powers, the United States and Russia. The Chinese state media said that Tiangong's final module successfully docked with the core structure earlier this month, as the nation expects the completion by year's end. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese astronauts aboard Shenzhou-15 spacecraft reach the Tiangong space station

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Chen Dong carried out a spacewalk on Saturday (September 17) from a new station called Tiangong which will be completed by the end of this year.

According to China's Xinhua News Agency, the astronauts installed a foot-stop to fix an astronaut’s feet to a robotic arm, a handle to open the hatch door from outside in an emergency and pumps at the station lab module Wentian.

Because China's military runs the country’s space programme, Beijing is building its own space station after being excluded by the US&nbsp;from the International Space Station.

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Shenzhou-14 taikonauts conducted the 2nd spacewalk on Saturday. Astronaut Cai Xuzhe successfully opened the door of the space station lab module Wentian at 1:35 pm: China Manned Space Agency <a href="https://t.co/F51YqUYWWS">pic.twitter.com/F51YqUYWWS</a>
— Zhang Meifang张美芳 (@CGMeifangZhang) <a href="https://twitter.com/CGMeifangZhang/status/1571051165936406529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In an echo of the US-Soviet rivalry that prompted the race to the moon in the 1960s, American officials see a host of strategic challenges from China’s space ambitions.

During a six-month mission, that will oversee the completion of the space station Tiangong, the astronauts will ensure that it looks similar to the Soviet Mir station that orbited Earth from the 1980s until 2001.

Expected to operate for at least a decade, Tiangong's core module entered orbit early last year post the return of the last one to earth in April following 183 days on the space station.

China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) reported that the country's heavily promoted space programme has already seen the nation land a rover on Mars and send probes to the Moon. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Chen Dong carried out a spacewalk on Saturday (September 17) from a new station called Tiangong which will be completed by the end of this year.

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Chen Dong carried out a spacewalk on Saturday (September 17) from a new station called Tiangong which will be completed by the end of this year. According to China's Xinhua News Agency, the astronauts installed a foot-stop to fix an astronaut’s feet to a robotic arm, a handle to open the hatch door from outside in an emergency and pumps at the station lab module Wentian. Because China's military runs the country’s space programme, Beijing is building its own space station after being excluded by the US from the International Space Station. Shenzhou-14 taikonauts conducted the 2nd spacewalk on Saturday. Astronaut Cai Xuzhe successfully opened the door of the space station lab module Wentian at 1:35 pm: China Manned Space Agency pic.twitter.com/F51YqUYWWS — Zhang Meifang张美芳 (@CGMeifangZhang) September 17, 2022 × In an echo of the US-Soviet rivalry that prompted the race to the moon in the 1960s, American officials see a host of strategic challenges from China’s space ambitions. During a six-month mission, that will oversee the completion of the space station Tiangong, the astronauts will ensure that it looks similar to the Soviet Mir station that orbited Earth from the 1980s until 2001. Expected to operate for at least a decade, Tiangong's core module entered orbit early last year post the return of the last one to earth in April following 183 days on the space station. China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) reported that the country's heavily promoted space programme has already seen the nation land a rover on Mars and send probes to the Moon. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Chen Dong carry out spacewalk from new station

Advancing its space programme that has grown rapidly in the last few years, China on Sunday launched its Wentian lab module, bound for the under-construction Chinese space station. The Wentian module is the second of the three modules required to complete the Tiangong space station, launched last year in April.&nbsp;

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The Long March 5B rocket's four liquid-fueled boosters have jettisoned as the launcher heads out over the South China Sea carrying the Wentian module toward the Chinese Tiangong space station. <a href="https://t.co/iYRn51rNmL">https://t.co/iYRn51rNmL</a> <a href="https://t.co/cC9l8pgKaE">pic.twitter.com/cC9l8pgKaE</a>
— Spaceflight Now (@SpaceflightNow) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceflightNow/status/1551092306698289154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The module weighing 23 tonnes at the launch was boosted into the sky using a Long March-5B Y3 rocket from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China’s Hainan province.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-dna-came-from-space-says-a-scientific-study-499775">Our DNA came from space, says a scientific study</a>

One of the engineers associated with the project was quoted as saying by Chinese state media, “This is the first time the Long March-5B rocket will undertake a rendezvous and docking mission. It will send the lab module to dock with the core module.”

The Wentian module was a working cabin that includes three sleeping areas and one sanitary area. It is expected to accommodate six astronauts at a time, particularly when the interchange of astronauts from different space missions happens.

Moreover, Wentian has a flexible solar panel on it that will generate an average of 430 kiloWatt hours per day. It is estimated that the power generation of Wentian could have easily supported the power demand of an average Beijing household for more than a month.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the three Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang, and Cai Xuzhe living in the space station, situated in Earth’s low orbit&nbsp;will observe the module’s arrival. Afterwards, the three will&nbsp;become the first crew members to float into the station’s new module.

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-is-india-building-a-new-spaceport-in-tamil-nadu-499495">&nbsp;Why is India building a new spaceport in Tamil Nadu?</a>

China’s third and final module for the space station named&nbsp;Mengtian&nbsp;module is expected to be launched later this year in October. While the Wentian and Mengtian modules will be on the side, the Tianhe module will be in the centre, completing the T-shaped space station.

It is pertinent to note that the International Space Station (ISS) has whopping 16 modules. With China nearing the completion of its space station, ISS and Tiangong will be the two active space stations in Earth’s orbit. The former is expected to retire by the end of this decade.

India is expected to launch its own station by 2030, as announced by former ISRO chairman K Sivan in 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Advancing its space programme that has grown rapidly in the last few years, China on Sunday launched its Wentian lab module, bound for the under-construction Chinese space station.

Advancing its space programme that has grown rapidly in the last few years, China on Sunday launched its Wentian lab module, bound for the under-construction Chinese space station. The Wentian module is the second of the three modules required to complete the Tiangong space station, launched last year in April. The Long March 5B rocket's four liquid-fueled boosters have jettisoned as the launcher heads out over the South China Sea carrying the Wentian module toward the Chinese Tiangong space station. https://t.co/iYRn51rNmL pic.twitter.com/cC9l8pgKaE — Spaceflight Now (@SpaceflightNow) July 24, 2022 × The module weighing 23 tonnes at the launch was boosted into the sky using a Long March-5B Y3 rocket from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China’s Hainan province. Read More: Our DNA came from space, says a scientific study One of the engineers associated with the project was quoted as saying by Chinese state media, “This is the first time the Long March-5B rocket will undertake a rendezvous and docking mission. It will send the lab module to dock with the core module.” The Wentian module was a working cabin that includes three sleeping areas and one sanitary area. It is expected to accommodate six astronauts at a time, particularly when the interchange of astronauts from different space missions happens. Moreover, Wentian has a flexible solar panel on it that will generate an average of 430 kiloWatt hours per day. It is estimated that the power generation of Wentian could have easily supported the power demand of an average Beijing household for more than a month. Reportedly, the three Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang, and Cai Xuzhe living in the space station, situated in Earth’s low orbit will observe the module’s arrival. Afterwards, the three will become the first crew members to float into the station’s new module. Read More: Why is India building a new spaceport in Tamil Nadu? China’s third and final module for the space station named Mengtian module is expected to be launched later this year in October. While the Wentian and Mengtian modules will be on the side, the Tianhe module will be in the centre, completing the T-shaped space station. It is pertinent to note that the International Space Station (ISS) has whopping 16 modules. With China nearing the completion of its space station, ISS and Tiangong will be the two active space stations in Earth’s orbit. The former is expected to retire by the end of this decade. India is expected to launch its own station by 2030, as announced by former ISRO chairman K Sivan in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China launches its Wentian module, approaches completion of its space station

In Pics: Chinese three-person Shenzhou 14 mission arrives at Tiangong space station for six-month stay

According to China's Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the Zhurong rover travelled over 1,000 metres&nbsp;on the surface of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-is-recruiting-to-send-humans-to-mars-as-soon-as-2037-403689">Mars</a> creating a new record.

The rover marked the hundredth day of its landing on Mars recently after landing on the red planet on May 15. China had launched the rover last year in July.

Watch:

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China had earlier declared the rover's mission was a "compelte success" and that it had completed all its tasks.

Zhang Rongqiao, chief designer of China's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youve-got-mail-from-mars-open-for-magic-and-wonder-402218"> Mars </a>exploration had informed that the rover will continue to go further to continue exploration.

Last week astronauts at the Tiangong space station had undertaken a spacewalk for the second time to work on the thermal unit and to adjust the camera.

The astronauts also completed tasks related to the robotic arm at the space station. The three-man astronaut team is China's first crewed spaceflight in nearly five years.

Long March-2F rocket carrying the three astronauts in the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft located in northwest China's Gobi desert&nbsp;had taken the astronauts into space.

"We have a better understanding of the atmosphere on Mars now. Normally we believe temperatures on the planet are around -60 to -50 degrees Celsius," China's CGTN quoted Liu Jianjun, chief designer of the ground as saying.

Chinese scientists are reportedly set to receive information from Mars every month. Reports say the mission has so far collected over 420 gigabytes of data from both the rover and the orbiter including soil samples.

The country has poured billions of dollars into its space programme with the rover expected to gather crucial data to help Chinese scientists to ensure further space exploration.

(With inputs from Agencies)

According to China's Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the Zhurong rover travelled over 1,000 metres on the surface of Mars creating a new record.

According to China's Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the Zhurong rover travelled over 1,000 metres on the surface of Mars creating a new record. The rover marked the hundredth day of its landing on Mars recently after landing on the red planet on May 15. China had launched the rover last year in July. Watch: China had earlier declared the rover's mission was a "compelte success" and that it had completed all its tasks. Zhang Rongqiao, chief designer of China's Mars exploration had informed that the rover will continue to go further to continue exploration. Last week astronauts at the Tiangong space station had undertaken a spacewalk for the second time to work on the thermal unit and to adjust the camera. The astronauts also completed tasks related to the robotic arm at the space station. The three-man astronaut team is China's first crewed spaceflight in nearly five years. Long March-2F rocket carrying the three astronauts in the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft located in northwest China's Gobi desert had taken the astronauts into space. "We have a better understanding of the atmosphere on Mars now. Normally we believe temperatures on the planet are around -60 to -50 degrees Celsius," China's CGTN quoted Liu Jianjun, chief designer of the ground as saying. Chinese scientists are reportedly set to receive information from Mars every month. Reports say the mission has so far collected over 420 gigabytes of data from both the rover and the orbiter including soil samples. The country has poured billions of dollars into its space programme with the rover expected to gather crucial data to help Chinese scientists to ensure further space exploration. (With inputs from Agencies)

China's Zhurong rover travels 1,000 metres on Mars surface, completes planned exploration

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