China has successfully conducted the joint rehearsal for its Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft, confirming all systems are ready for launch. The rehearsal took place on Wednesday morning, with teams working diligently to ensure a seamless upcoming mission to the China Space Station.
The comprehensive test was coordinated by the Beijing Aerospace Control Center and conducted at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province. Teams simulated the entire launch sequence, from pre-flight preparations through liftoff and flight procedures, to guarantee that all systems operate together flawlessly.
“We’ve completed connecting the rocket to all critical support systems, including fueling, gas supply, and air conditioning. All systems are functioning properly,” said Zhou Hong from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
Zhou Geqiang from the Astronaut Center of China confirmed that all astronaut-related systems have passed initial testing, and the spacecraft has been successfully transferred to the launch tower.
The Tianzhou-8 cargo ship is set to deliver essential supplies to the China Space Station, where the Shenzhou-19 crew began their six-month mission on October 30.
(Cover: The combination of the Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft and a Long March-7 Y9 carrier rocket at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site, south China’s Hainan Province, November 13, 2024. /CFP)
Reference(s):
China completes joint rehearsal for Tianzhou-8 cargo mission
cgtn.com
