China’s space program gears up for its next major milestone as the Shenzhou-20 crew prepares for liftoff. At a press conference on Wednesday, the China Manned Space Agency introduced the astronauts for the Shenzhou-20 crewed mission. The trio includes Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie.
Chen Dong will command the Shenzhou-20 crew during the mission. This marks his third journey into space. Previously, he participated in the Shenzhou-11 and Shenzhou-14 missions. After leading Shenzhou-14, he returns as commander with valuable experience.
The Shenzhou-20 crew plans to launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The scheduled launch time is 5:17 p.m. Thursday, Beijing Time. Lin Xiqiang, the agency’s spokesperson, confirmed the timing during the announcement.
Chen Dong, a member of China’s second batch of astronauts, now holds a unique record. He becomes the first from that group to complete three space missions. His experience will be vital as the Shenzhou-20 crew carries out its tasks in orbit.
Joining him are Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie. Both astronauts will make their space debut with the Shenzhou-20 crew. They belong to China’s third batch of astronauts, selected for their skills and backgrounds.
Before joining the astronaut program, Chen Zhongrui served as an air force pilot. Wang Jie worked as an engineer at the China Academy of Space Technology. His previous role was under the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
This mission marks a significant step forward for China’s human spaceflight program. The Shenzhou-20 crew represents both experience and new talent.
As the launch countdown continues, the nation watches closely. The Shenzhou-20 crew stands ready to contribute to China’s growing space legacy. Their journey is expected to further strengthen the country’s presence in low-Earth orbit.
