Chinese astronauts on the Shenzhou-21 mission conducted their first spacewalk, inspecting the Shenzhou-20 capsule and installing protective devices, marking a key milestone.
Chinese astronauts have successfully carried out the first spacewalk of the Shenzhou-21 mission. On December 9th, astronauts Zhang Lu and Wu Fei stepped outside the Tianhe core module and completed critical tasks. Both returned safely to the Wentian laboratory module, marking a major milestone for China’s space program. Zhang Lu performed a spacewalk for the first time in over two and a half years, while Wu Fei became the youngest Chinese astronaut to carry out an extravehicular activity (EVA).
Key Tasks and Technical Achievements
During the eight-hour spacewalk, the crew worked closely with astronaut Zhang Hongzhang inside the station, as well as with ground support teams. They inspected and photographed the window of the Shenzhou-20 return capsule, which was damaged on November 4th. In addition, they installed a space debris protection device and replaced a multi-layer thermal adapter cover.
The operation also involved using the station’s robotic arm to move astronauts and equipment. This marked the first time that two crewed spacecraft were docked to the Chinese space station simultaneously during an EVA. The complex manoeuvre tested both planning and execution, highlighting China’s growing capability in human spaceflight.
What’s Next for Shenzhou-21？
The mission will continue with more EVAs to handle both personnel and payload tasks. Astronauts will also conduct scientific experiments and technical tests. Depending on the situation, they may take additional protective measures for the Shenzhou-20 capsule’s damaged window.
This successful spacewalk demonstrates the advancing skills of Chinese astronauts and China’s expanding role in space exploration. It also brings the country closer to long-term operations and scientific research aboard the Chinese space station.
Additional reporting by CNS, CCTV.
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