Shenzhou XVIII Crew Returns to Beijing After Mission

The Shenzhou XVIII crew, comprising astronauts Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu, successfully returned to Beijing after a six-month mission aboard the Tiangong space station, landing at the Dongfeng site in Inner Mongolia at 1:24 AM Beijing Time. The crew completed numerous scientific experiments and tasks during their time in orbit, including a handover with the incoming Shenzhou-19 crew. This mission marked a significant achievement for China's space program, with Ye becoming the first Chinese astronaut to surpass 365 days in space across multiple missions. Preparations for their return included rigorous drills and enhancements to the landing site's technology to ensure a safe and efficient rescue operation during nighttime conditions. The astronauts are currently undergoing medical evaluations and will address the media following their quarantine period. Overall, the Shenzhou-18 mission was deemed a success by the China Manned Space Agency.