China is showing its space prowess with the recent launch of Shenzhou 17 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. This mission is a testament to China’s strong determination to explore outer space, as it competes with the United States.
Meet the Young Crew
The Shenzhou 17 crew consists of Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie, and Jiang Xinlin. Their average age is just 38, making them the youngest team to embark on a space station construction mission. Tang Hongbo, one of the crew members, has previously led a space mission in 2021 that lasted three months.
What’s the Mission About?
The crew’s main tasks involve conducting experiments in space medicine and technology. They will also install and maintain equipment inside and outside the space station. Additionally, China plans to send a new telescope into space, though we don’t know when they’ll do this yet. This telescope will help explore the universe through surveys and sky mapping.
China’s Space Achievements
China is building its own space station because it’s not part of the International Space Station. Despite the challenges, China has made significant progress in space exploration. In 2003, China sent its first astronaut into space, becoming the third country to do so independently. They’ve also been successful in lunar exploration, collecting moon samples and landing a rover on the far side of the moon.
Joining the Global Space Race
China’s space endeavours are part of the ongoing competition with the United States in various fields, including technology, military, and diplomacy. Both countries have plans for lunar missions and have landed rovers on Mars. The United States, with the help of private sector companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, aims to send astronauts back to the moon by 2025.
