LeadStory

What happened to the Chinese astronauts?

Asked 1 hour ago

Answer

Three Chinese astronauts experienced a delayed return to Earth after their spacecraft was damaged by space debris. Initially stranded, their mission was extended while authorities assessed the damage and prepared a replacement craft. Ultimately, the astronauts landed safely in the Gobi Desert after a nine-day delay, highlighting the increasing risks posed by orbital debris and prompting calls for greater international cooperation in space safety.

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France 24

Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged

France 24 · Just In
France 24
France 24
Just In
  • Chinese astronauts safely landed in the Gobi Desert after returning aboard Shenzhou 21.
  • Their return was delayed by nine days due to space debris striking the spacecraft and causing cracks in a viewport window. 39s
  • Millions of pieces of debris orbit Earth at high speeds, posing significant risks to spacecraft. 55s
  • The delay recalls a previous incident where NASA astronauts were stranded due to spacecraft issues, highlighting the risks of space travel. 1m 17s
  • The incident has led to increased calls for international cooperation to address the growing threat of space debris. 1m 47s
Space Exploration

References

Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged
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France 24
4 hours ago
Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged

Returning aboard Shenzhou 21, the astronaut expressed relief and noted the challenges of human space exploration, emphasizing pride in completing the mission.

Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged
Icon
France 24
4 hours ago
Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged

Their return was delayed by nine days due to space debris striking their spacecraft, causing tiny cracks in a viewport window.

Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged
Icon
France 24
4 hours ago
Chinese astronauts return to earth after spacecraft damaged

The incident highlights the growing threat of space debris, which is expected to worsen as space traffic increases.

Three Chinese astronauts stranded in space after capsule damage
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Al Jazeera
2 days ago
Three Chinese astronauts stranded in space after capsule damage

Just before departure, China's space agency announced the return was postponed after the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was struck by a small piece of orbital debris; an assessment of the impact and risk is underway.

Three Chinese astronauts stranded in space after capsule damage
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Al Jazeera
2 days ago
Three Chinese astronauts stranded in space after capsule damage

Chinese authorities have activated an emergency plan, and the damaged Shenzhou-20 ship is likely to return to Earth without a crew.

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