China’s Shenzhou-16 Mission

On May 30, 2023, China successfully launched a spacecraft to its Tiangong space station, carrying three astronauts, including its first civilian member.

• Launched: Shenzhou-16 mission
• Launched using: Long March-2F rocket
• Launched from: Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the Gobi Desert in northwest China
• Special: Carries China’s first civilian astronaut

Key Points

• The Shenzhou-16 mission was the fifth manned mission to the Chinese space outpost since 2021, highlighting China’s commitment to advancing its space program.
• The crew of the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft consisted of three astronauts including Gui Haichao, the first Chinese civilian to travel to space who replaced the previous crew of Shenzhou-15.