At the Wentiange Square of the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, a send-off ceremony was held today for the crew of the Shenzhou-18 manned space mission. The three astronauts—Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu—stood proudly in their spacesuits, waving to a crowd of well-wishers who gathered to witness this significant moment in China’s space exploration journey.
The Shenzhou-18 mission marks another milestone in China’s ambitious space program, aiming to advance scientific research and technological development. The crew is set to embark on a mission to the Tiangong space station, where they will conduct a series of experiments and maintenance tasks over several months.
Ye Guangfu, a veteran astronaut with previous spaceflight experience, will command the mission. Li Cong and Li Guangsu, both making their first journeys into space, expressed excitement and confidence in fulfilling their mission objectives.
The send-off ceremony was attended by officials from China’s space agency and representatives of the scientific community. Speeches highlighted the importance of the mission for China’s growing role in international space exploration and the pursuit of peaceful uses of outer space.
As the crew boarded the transfer vehicle to the launch pad, spectators cheered, and banners waved, symbolizing national pride and support for the mission. The launch is scheduled for later today, with the spacecraft expected to dock with the Tiangong space station within 48 hours.
China’s space program has made significant strides in recent years, including the successful deployment of the Tiangong space station and exploratory missions to the Moon and Mars. The Shenzhou-18 mission continues this momentum, contributing to scientific knowledge and fostering international cooperation.
Global observers and enthusiasts eagerly await updates on the mission’s progress, recognizing its impact on advancements in space technology and exploration.
Reference(s):
Live: Send-off ceremony for Shenzhou-18 manned spacecraft crew
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