Shenzhou XVII astronauts set for their first spacewalk

Shenzhou XVII astronauts set for their first spacewalk
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 21, 2023

The crew of the Shenzhou XVII mission is gearing up for their inaugural spacewalk, a significant step in China's continuing endeavors in space exploration. The China Manned Space Agency, in a recent announcement, confirmed that the trio aboard the mission - Senior Colonel Tang Hongbo, Lieutenant Colonel Tang Shengjie, and Lieutenant Colonel Jiang Xinlin - are in optimal condition and ready for this pivotal operation.

Having spent 54 days aboard the Tiangong space station as of Wednesday, the Shenzhou XVII team has been immersed in extensive preparatory activities. These astronauts, representing the sixth crew to inhabit the Tiangong, embarked on their journey to this colossal orbital outpost on October 26. Their arrival marked a seamless transition from the preceding Shenzhou XVI team, underscoring the continuity and resilience of China's manned space missions.

In the lead-up to their first spacewalk, the crew has diligently worked on a multitude of tasks. Key among these have been the examination and upkeep of essential station equipment, testing of extravehicular suits critical for spacewalks, and robust preparation exercises.

Their routine also included training in robotic arm manipulation, emergency evacuation procedures, medical response tactics, and conducting various science and technology experiments. These activities are pivotal in ensuring the crew's readiness for the complex and demanding nature of spacewalks.

Spacewalks, technically known as extravehicular activities (EVAs), are a hallmark of any advanced space program. They are essential for the maintenance and upgrade of space station facilities and serve as a testament to a nation's spacefaring capabilities. To date, Chinese astronauts have successfully completed 13 spacewalks. The most recent of these was conducted by the Shenzhou XVI crew in July, lasting an impressive eight hours.

The Tiangong space station, orbiting about 400 kilometers above Earth, is a cornerstone of China's ambitious space program. It comprises the Tianhe core module, serving as the primary living and working quarters for astronauts, and is flanked by the Wentian and Mengtian science lab modules.

These modules are dedicated to a broad spectrum of scientific research, ranging from biology to materials science, playing a crucial role in advancing human knowledge in space. Additionally, Tiangong hosts visiting spacecraft, including the current Shenzhou XVII crew ship and the Tianzhou 6 cargo ship, highlighting its role as a hub for ongoing space operations.

The Shenzhou program, initiated in the 1990s, has been instrumental in establishing China's presence in space. With each mission, including the latest Shenzhou XVII, China demonstrates its growing expertise and commitment to long-term space exploration and international scientific collaboration.

The successful execution of these spacewalks by the Shenzhou XVII crew will not only contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of the Tiangong space station but also mark another significant milestone in China's journey to becoming a leading power in space exploration.

Based on a Xinhua News Agency article