China’s Next Space Mission: Youngest Astronaut & Rodent Crew Aboard
China is preparing for its next crewed mission to the Tiangong space station, Shenzhou-21, and the mission promises to be an interesting one. Announced by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), the mission will launch from the Jiuchuan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China on Friday at 23:44 (15:44 GMT). This mission is notable not only for its human crew but also for the inclusion of a unique set of participants: four mice.
The Human Crew
Leading the Shenzhou-21 mission is 48-year-old pilot Zhang Lu, who previously participated in the Shenzhou-15 mission. He will be joined by Zhang Hongchang, 39, completing the human component of the mission. The CMSA, through spokesperson Zhang Jingbo, has highlighted the significance of this crew, indicating the continued advancement of the Chinese space program.
Mice in Space: A First for China
Adding a novel element to the mission, four mice – two males and two females – will be part of the Shenzhou-21 journey. These rodents will be the subjects of China’s first in-orbit experiments on rodents. This marks a significant step in China’s space program, as scientists seek to understand the effects of space on living organisms. The Tiangong space station, which hosts a crew of three astronauts who rotate every six months, is the central hub for China’s space program.
The Broader Context
The Shenzhou-21 mission is a continuation of China’s ambitious space program. The inclusion of the youngest astronaut in Chinese history and the experiments with mice underscores the nation’s commitment to both human spaceflight and scientific research in the challenging environment of space. The CMSA’s announcement highlights the ongoing efforts to expand knowledge and capabilities in space exploration.
Source: Annahar
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