China Launches Shenzhou-20 Mission To Tiangong Space Station

China Sends Three Astronauts to Space Station in Landmark Shenzhou-20 Mission

China successfully launched three astronauts to its permanently inhabited space station on Thursday, marking the 15th crewed mission in its spaceflight history and the 20th overall under the Shenzhou program, which began more than 30 years ago.

The Shenzhou-20 spacecraft lifted off at 5:17 p.m. local time (0917 GMT) aboard a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Shortly after launch, state news agency Xinhua confirmed the mission had successfully entered orbit.

This latest mission underscores China’s growing ambitions and capabilities in space exploration. As it strengthens its position in space, more countries are beginning to take interest in partnering with China’s expanding space program.

In a notable development, Pakistan is currently conducting a preliminary selection process for its first astronauts. One of the selected candidates is expected to join a future Shenzhou mission, which would make them the first foreign astronaut to board the Chinese-operated Tiangong space station.

China’s space advancements, especially in lunar missions and human spaceflight, are positioning it as a major player on the global space stage, offering new opportunities for international cooperation beyond the traditional space alliances.

#WATCH 🇨🇳China successfully launched the Shenzhou XX crewed spaceship on Thursday, sending three astronauts to its space station for a six-month mission.#Shenzhou #Shenzhou20 pic.twitter.com/RfXpfbAl4l
— 凤凰欧洲 PhoenixCNE News (@PhoenixCNE_News) April 24, 2025

Highlights:

China launches three astronauts aboard Shenzhou-20 to its space station.
The mission is China’s 15th crewed and 20th overall under the Shenzhou program.
Liftoff took place from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre at 5:17 p.m. local time.
State media confirm the launch was successful and the crew reached orbit.
Pakistan is selecting its first astronaut to join a future Chinese space mission.

If you like the article share it.

Send Your Article for Opinion Page: editor.theeasterntimes@gmail.com

Feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to help and support: https://theeasterntimes.com/contact-us/

Also connect with us on social media platform X: https://x.com/times_555