Chinese astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-21 mission successfully completed their first extravehicular activity (EVA) on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marking a critical milestone in the operation of China's orbiting space station. The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) confirmed the six-hour spacewalk included equipment installations and system tests to expand the station's scientific capabilities.
The mission, part of China's ambitious space program, underscores the nation's growing technological prowess in low-Earth orbit operations. CMSA spokesperson Zhang Wei stated the crew "demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork," adding that the EVA data will inform future missions planned through 2026.
This achievement follows China's recent deployment of next-generation life support systems in its space station modules. Analysts note the timing aligns with broader goals to establish a permanent orbital presence, with international collaboration opportunities expected to increase in coming years.
