China Launches First Space Station Module [Xinhua]

ShareThis

China is developing its first space station module, called Tiangong 1 (Tiangong means "Heavenly Palace"). Credit: China Manned Space Engineering Office artist's concept Enlarge Image

China’s first space station module, called Tiangong-1, lifted off at 9:16 p.m. local time Sept. 29 from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on a Long March-2FT1 rocket, the state-run Xinhua news service reported.

Tiangong-1 will test space docking with the unmanned Shenzhou-8 spacecraft later this year as China endeavors to become the third country to operate a permanent space station around 2020.

Chinese President Hu Jintao applauded as he watched the launch from the Beijing Aerospace Flight Control Center.

 

READ IT AT: [Xinhua]

Rocket Fueled for Chinese Space Module Launch [Xinhua]

SUGGEST A STORY/