China to Launch First Crew to New Permanent Space Station
Voice of America
China will launch the first crew of its new permanent space station into orbit on Thursday.
An official with the China Manned Space Agency announced Wednesday that veteran astronauts Nie Haisheng and Liu Boming and rookie Tang Hongbo will blast off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China aboard the Shenzhou-12. At age 56, Nie Haisheng will become China’s oldest astronaut to fly to space. The trio will spend three months aboard the first module of the station, dubbed Tianhe, which translates to “Heavenly Harmony.” The mission, China’s first manned space flight in five years, is the third of 11 needed to add more elements to the space station before it becomes fully operational in 2022. The new station is expected to remain operational for 10 years. The station could outlast the U.S.-led International Space Station, which may be decommissioned after its funding expires in 2024. China has never sent astronauts to the ISS due to a U.S. law that effectively bars the space agency NASA from collaborating with China.A scenic view from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, May 10, 2024. A view of roses in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, May 10, 2024. The White House Kitchen Garden in Washington, May 10, 2024. The Jacqueline Kennedy Garden at the White House in Washington, May 10, 2024.
FILE - A movie-prop helicopter parked on a bridge causes traffic to slow on the Hollywood Freeway below, in Los Angeles, Dec. 12, 2018. California could soon deploy generative artificial intelligence tools to help reduce traffic jams. FILE - California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks in Larkspur, Calif., April 16, 2024. California could soon deploy AI tools to help solve problems, under agreements announced May 9, 2024, as part of Newsom's efforts to harness technologies for public services.
FILE - A Vodouist clad in white invokes a gede spirit during the Saint George celebration, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, April 24, 2024. A child stands with Vodou pilgrims during a Mass marking the feast day of agriculture and work, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, May 1, 2024. FILE - Believers dance during the St. George Vodou celebration in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, April 24, 2024.