China’s Tianzhou-9 Cargo Spacecraft Prepares for Launch with Upgraded Gear
China’s Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft, mounted atop a Long March-7 Y10 carrier rocket, has been transported to the launch pad at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China’s Hainan Province. This marks a significant step toward its upcoming mission to supply China’s space station.
Ready for Launch
According to the China Manned Space Agency, all systems at the launch site are functioning optimally. Pre-launch checks and joint tests are underway, ensuring that the spacecraft is primed for its journey to orbit in the near future.
The Powerhouse Rocket
The Long March-7 rocket, using kerosene and liquid oxygen propellants, is China’s new-generation medium-sized launch vehicle. Standing at 53.1 meters tall and equipped with four boosters, it boasts a payload capacity of 14 tonnes to low-Earth orbit.
“The rocket’s high reliability, enhanced safety features, and environmentally friendly design make it ideal for delivering the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft to the space station,” said Wang Xi of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
This rocket series has successfully launched Tianzhou-1 through Tianzhou-8 missions, and a backup rocket is on standby. “In case of an urgent situation at the space station, the backup rocket can be launched within three months,” explained Guo Jiarui from CASC.
Notably, the Long March-7 can dynamically recalculate its flight path, much like how navigation apps adjust routes based on live traffic. This allows for continuous trajectory updates, ensuring the rocket reaches its target orbit with remarkable accuracy.
What’s on Board Tianzhou-9?
Tianzhou-9 is set to deliver approximately 6.5 tonnes of supplies, including consumables, propellants, and experimental equipment, to support the taikonauts of Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions.
Among the cargo are two new sets of domestically developed spacesuits with extended lifespans—from three years or 15 spacewalks to four years or 20 spacewalks. These suits will enhance the astronauts’ capabilities during extravehicular activities.
Additionally, a core muscle training device is being sent to upgrade the space station’s gym, helping taikonauts counteract muscle atrophy caused by microgravity. Two sets of advanced space science experimental equipment will also be on board, paving the way for cutting-edge research in orbit.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming launch of Tianzhou-9 signifies China’s continued advancements in space exploration. With each mission, the country strengthens its presence in space and contributes to humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.
