China Launches Astronauts to Tiangong Station

China launched the Shenzhou-19 mission, sending three astronauts, including the country's only female spaceflight engineer Wang Haoze, to its Tiangong space station. The crew, which includes mission commander Cai Xuzhe and rookie astronaut Song Lingdong, aims to perform 86 scientific experiments and install protective measures against space debris during their six-month stay. The launch, deemed a 'complete success,' marks the continuation of China's ambitious space program, which includes plans for lunar exploration and a base on the Moon by 2030. The astronauts will replace the current crew, who are scheduled to return to Earth on November 4. This mission emphasizes China's growing capabilities in space exploration amidst global competition, particularly with the U.S. and other nations. The Tiangong space station is expected to be permanently operational for at least a decade, with future plans for expansion and commercial activities.