Shenzhou 20 Crew Launches to Tiangong Station

China has launched the Shenzhou 20 mission, sending astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie to the Tiangong space station to replace the crew returning on April 29 after 175 days in orbit. The new crew will stay for about six months to conduct scientific experiments, install space debris protection, and perform spacewalks. The mission also includes life science research, carrying zebrafish, planarians, and bacteria for in-orbit experiments. This launch highlights China's growing capabilities and ambitions in space, including plans for a future lunar mission and expanded international collaboration. While Hong Kong's first astronaut is still expected to join a mission as early as 2026, there is no immediate mention of Macau astronauts participating. The Tiangong space station's development has reinforced China's role as a leading spacefaring nation.