China's Tiangong space station program achieved another milestone this week as astronauts Zhang Lu and Wu Fei conducted their first extravehicular activities using advanced new spacesuits delivered earlier this year. The landmark spacewalk on December 9, 2025, showcased China's latest advancements in space technology through the inaugural use of upgraded Feitian EVA suits.
The D and E model spacesuits, transported to the station by the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft in July 2025, represent the second generation of China's indigenous extravehicular mobility systems. While maintaining the signature white base color, the suits feature distinctive trims – one with red accents and the other with blue – to help distinguish crew members during complex orbital operations.
Space engineering experts highlight the suits' improved mobility joints and enhanced life support systems, crucial for supporting the station's ongoing expansion. "This technological leap ensures our crews can safely conduct more ambitious construction tasks and scientific experiments," stated a China Manned Space Agency spokesperson during a briefing from Beijing.
The successful deployment comes as international observers note China's accelerated progress in developing fully autonomous space infrastructure. With six crewed missions planned for 2026, the new spacesuit technology positions China to maintain continuous human presence in low Earth orbit while advancing lunar exploration ambitions.
