China’s space program reached a major milestone as its youngest team of astronauts launched from the Gobi Desert, marking a new step in the country’s space ambitions.
According to BBC, the Shenzhou 19 spacecraft, carrying three taikonauts—the Chinese term for astronauts—took off early Wednesday, lighting up the desert with a fiery glow.
The launch, observed by BBC journalists just a kilometer away, saw the crew head to China’s own Tiangong Space Station, where they’ll spend six months conducting experiments and spacewalks as the country gathers experience for a planned moon mission by 2030.
This mission, hailed in China as a “moment of national pride,” is being celebrated throughout Dongfeng Space City, where flags and astronaut sculptures adorn the streets, and children cheer on their country’s explorers.
BBC reports that President Xi Jinping’s space ambitions are strongly evident here, with locals rallying in support as they watch the nation push toward its “eternal dream” of becoming a space power.
BBC also highlights that this latest crew—China’s youngest yet, including its first female space engineer—reflects the country’s commitment to building a new generation of space explorers.
Commander Cai Xuzhe expressed pride in working alongside younger colleagues, inspired to “achieve new accomplishments” for China’s space program.
China’s rapid progress has drawn attention worldwide, especially in the U.S., where NASA Administrator Bill Nelson remarked earlier this year that China and the U.S. are essentially in a race to return to the Moon.
As BBC notes, some U.S. officials worry that China’s advanced space technology, which includes a rapidly expanding satellite network, could eventually be weaponized.
However, China views its efforts differently, emphasizing peace and cooperation. BBC’s report highlights that Chinese officials are downplaying any rivalry, instead presenting space exploration as a collaborative mission that benefits humanity.
They even point to Tiangong research with potential to improve bone health on Earth, underlining the practical benefits of space studies.
BBC adds that China has big plans, including a lunar research station, more advanced satellites, and Venus atmosphere sample returns by mid-century.
Despite challenges, China remains optimistic. Lin Xiqiang, a China Manned Space Agency spokesperson, stated the country is determined to land a crew on the Moon soon, embracing a spirit of perseverance.
As BBC observes, this rising space rivalry extends beyond Earth. While China makes strides in space technology, it’s equally focused on securing information, controlling media access, and protecting secrets.
The next steps in this new space race may involve staking claims and competing for resources on the Moon, a venture that could one day benefit all humanity—if collaboration prevails over competition.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5yp47prg7jo