China’s Shenzhou-20 Crew to Return on Friday After Delay Due to Space Debris

The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced that the Shenzhou-20 crew will return to Earth on Friday, travelling aboard the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft and landing at the Dongfeng landing site in Inner Mongolia.

Astronauts Healthy, Landing Preparations Complete

The crew members — Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie — are reported to be in good physical condition. CMSA says all systems involved in the recovery mission are fully prepared, and the landing zone is ready for touchdown.

Delay Due to Space Debris Impact

The return was initially planned for November 5, but was postponed after a suspected tiny space debris impact on the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft, prompting additional safety checks.

Next Mission

The Shenzhou-22 mission will be launched at an appropriate time, CMSA added, without specifying a timeline.