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BEIJING, Nov 25 (APP):China has successfully launched the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft at 12:11 pm on Tuesday from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, according to China Manned Space Agency.
The launch came after the Chinese Space Station recently experienced its first major unexpected emergency, as Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was struck by space debris, disrupting its planned return. In response, the Shenzhou-20 crew successfully returned to Earth by “borrowing” the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft, while ground teams rapidly prepared for the launch of Shenzhou-22.
A few minutes after liftoff, the CMSA announced that the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft successfully separated from the Long March rocket and entered its planned orbit, marking a complete success for the launch mission, Global Times reported.
This is the first emergency launch in the history of China’s manned space program, the agency said.
According to previous media reports, the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft will be fully loaded with cargo, including food for in-orbit taikonauts and equipment for the space station. The Shenzhou spacecraft can deliver around 600 kilograms of supplies, sufficient to support the Shenzhou-21 crew in completing their mission. The arrival of Shenzhou-22 will also ensure the Shenzhou-21 crew can safely withdraw and continue to work and live securely in orbit.