China's Shenzhou-21 astronauts are set to conduct their first extravehicular activity (EVA) since arriving at the Tiangong Space Station, the China Manned Space Agency confirmed on December 4, 2025. The mission marks a critical phase in China's 2025 orbital operations, with the crew having completed rigorous preparations since boarding the station on November 11.
During their first three weeks in orbit, astronauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang successfully managed station maintenance, emergency supply audits, and health evaluations. They also conducted vital training exercises, including robotic arm operations and emergency pressure drills, while advancing multiple space science experiments.
The team recently coordinated with the uncrewed Shenzhou-22 cargo spacecraft, which delivered essential supplies to support extended operations. Agency officials confirmed the crew remains in optimal health and the station's systems are fully operational ahead of the planned spacewalk.
This EVA represents China's latest milestone in its ambitious space program, following the completion of the Tiangong Station's third module in early 2025. Analysts suggest the mission could yield breakthroughs in materials science and extraterrestrial engineering.
