China's cosmic ambition

JIUQUAN, China (AP) — China reaffirmed its commitment to sending astronauts to the moon by 2030, as part of its strategy to consolidate its position as a global power in space exploration.

"Currently, every program in the research and development work to put a person on the Moon is progressing smoothly," said Zhang Jingbo, spokesman for China's Manned Space Program.

Among the advancements he mentioned were the Long March 10 rocket, the lunar landers, and the rover—essential elements for the future mission. “Our unwavering goal of China landing a person on the Moon by 2030 is firm,” he emphasized.

As part of its plans, Beijing yesterday presented the new crew that will travel to the Tiangong space station, a key component of China's space program. Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang will launch today at 11:44 p.m. local time from the Jiuquan launch site.

Zhang Lu already participated in the Shenzhou 15 mission, and Wu and Hongzhang will be making their debut on this expedition. The mission includes biological experiments with four mice, two males and two females, to study the effects of weightlessness and confinement on living organisms.

The Tiangong program, meaning "Heavenly Palace," began development after China was excluded from the International Space Station due to national security concerns raised by the United States. With its own orbital project, the Asian nation seeks to strengthen its technological independence and expand its participation in global scientific research. Each crew spends six months on the station, conducting research to prepare for future interplanetary missions.

At a glance

Tiangong Station

The "Heavenly Palace" space station is the centerpiece of the Chinese orbital program, through which astronauts conduct scientific research and biological experiments in microgravity conditions.

Long March Rocket

This vehicle is the key piece of the Chinese lunar program and will be responsible for transporting the manned mission to the Moon.