China’s Shenzhou-19 crew has made history by setting a new world record for the longest single spacewalk, lasting an impressive nine hours. Over the course of their 175-day mission aboard the China Space Station, the trio conducted three spacewalks and completed six in-and-out payload transfer tasks, showcasing China’s growing prowess in space exploration.
The crew members—Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze—are all in excellent condition, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Their mission has progressed smoothly, marking significant milestones not only for China but for space exploration as a whole.
Cai Xuzhe has now completed five spacewalks, earning him the title of the Chinese astronaut with the most extravehicular activities. Song Lingdong made his mark as the first Chinese astronaut born in the 1990s to perform a spacewalk, inspiring a new generation of space enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Wang Haoze became the first female aerospace flight engineer to enter the space station, breaking new ground for women in science and technology.
One of the mission’s highlights was overcoming an unexpected challenge during a cargo installation task. When a payload adapter became stuck, the Shenzhou-19 crew swiftly resolved the issue during their first spacewalk. Their quick thinking and teamwork were crucial in ensuring the smooth progress of subsequent experiments, demonstrating their exceptional problem-solving skills under pressure.
The achievements of the Shenzhou-19 mission reflect China’s accelerating advancements in space exploration. As the nation continues to reach new heights, these astronauts serve as a source of inspiration for young people around the world who dream of exploring the final frontier.
