China's Shenzhou-19 Launches, Advances Space Goals

China has successfully launched the Shenzhou-19 mission, sending a three-member crew to the Tiangong space station, including the country's first female space engineer, Wang Haoze. This mission marks a significant step in China's space ambitions, as the country aims to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030. The crew, consisting of veteran Cai Xuzhe and first-time astronauts Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze, will stay for six months to conduct experiments and spacewalks. This mission underscores China's commitment to becoming a space superpower amidst growing competition with the U.S. China has been excluded from the International Space Station due to U.S. concerns over military control. Wang Haoze, who has a research background, highlights the increasing role of civilians in China's space program, contrasting with prior astronauts who were military pilots.