What went wrong in space?
Asked 3 hours ago
Answer
Three Chinese astronauts are stranded on the Tiangong space station after their return capsule was damaged by orbital debris, prompting emergency measures and a replacement craft. Adelaide researchers simulated lunar living to support NASA's Artemis mission. The International Space Station is set for retirement, with commercial stations by Axiom Space and VAST in development as China expands its own space presence.
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Three Chinese astronauts stranded in space after capsule damage
- Three Shenzhou-20 astronauts were due to return to Earth after a six-month rotation on the Tiangong space station. 12s
- Their return was postponed after the spacecraft was struck by orbital debris, and an assessment of the damage is underway. 39s
- Experts highlight the increasing danger of space debris, with an estimated 140 million pieces in low Earth orbit. 1m 1s
- Chinese authorities have activated an emergency plan, and the damaged Shenzhou-20 is likely to return to Earth without a crew. 2m 6s
- A new spacecraft is reportedly being prepared for future missions. 2m 15s
References
China's space agency postponed the return of three astronauts from the Tiangong space station after their Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was struck by orbital debris. An emergency plan is activated, and a replacement craft is being prepared.
The International Space Station will be retired at the end of the decade. American companies like Axiom Space and VAST are developing commercial space stations, while China operates its own station, increasing competition in low-Earth orbit.