China Launches Shenzhou-6 With Two Astronauts Onboard
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The Shenzhou-6 spacecaraft was launched on Wednesday at 9:00 AM Beijing Time from China’s satellite launch center in Jiuquan located in northwest China. On board are two astronauts, Fei Junlong, 40 and Nie Haisheng, 41.
This is China’s second manned mission – and its first mission with two astronauts on board. China’s first manned mission, Shenzhou-5, was launched in 2003 with a single astronaut, Colonel Yang Liwei on board.
Shenzhou-5’s misison lasted for 14 orbits – a few hours short of one day. Shenzhou-6’s mission will last for 5 days.
Related Links
CRS Report: China’s Space Program: An Overview, Congressional Research Service
Recent China Space News, SpaceRef
