Wed Apr 23 10:22:21 UTC 2025: ## China Launches Shenzhou-20 Mission to Tiangong Space Station
**Jiuquan, China –** China is poised to launch its Shenzhou-20 mission, carrying three astronauts to the Tiangong space station, on April 24th. The mission, departing from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, will see astronauts Chen Dong (on his third mission), Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie embarking on a six-month stay.
The primary objective is a crew rotation, with the Shenzhou-19 crew slated to return on April 29th. The Shenzhou-20 crew will conduct a range of scientific experiments, including life science research using zebrafish, planarians, and streptomyces. They will also install new equipment, including a space debris protection device. Resupply is planned via the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft.
This mission marks a significant step in China’s ambitious space program. Notably, the country’s fourth batch of astronauts, including for the first time astronauts from Hong Kong, Macau, and Pakistan, are currently undergoing training. The Hong Kong and Macau astronauts are expected to participate in missions as early as 2026, while the selection process for the Pakistani astronauts is ongoing, following a February space cooperation agreement between the two nations. One Pakistani astronaut will focus on payload and scientific research at the Tiangong station. The Shenzhou-20 crew is expected to return to Earth in late October.
First Piper 