China successfully launched the Shenzhou-19 spacecraft aboard a CZ-2F/G (Chang Zheng-2F/G) carrier rocket on its mission to the Chinese orbital station.

The rocket, measuring 58 meters in length, is capable of carrying up to 8.6 tons of cargo into low Earth orbit.

The Shenzhou-19 crew is led by Senior Colonel Cai Xuzhe of the People’s Liberation Army Ground Forces, who previously spent six months aboard the Chinese orbital station in 2022. Joining him are Lieutenant Colonel Song Lingdong and female astronaut Wang Haoze, both making their inaugural journey to near-Earth space. The crew is scheduled to return to Earth in late April or early May 2025.

According to Lin Siqiang, Deputy Director of the China Manned Space Agency, the crew will conduct a range of scientific experiments during their mission, encompassing biology, microgravity physics, materials science, medicine, and space technology. A total of 86 studies are planned for this mission.

The Chinese space station, located approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, is expected to operate for more than a decade, contributing to advancements in various fields of research and technology. (ILKHA)