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TianGong 1 Spaceflight Mission
Mission Details
- Official Name: TianGong 1
- Mission Crew: None
- Launch Vehicle: CZ-2F/G
- Launch Site: Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre
Summary
One of the two main aims in the second phase of the Project 921 human spaceflight programme is to perform the rendezvous docking operation, which is crucial for the future space station construction. As the first step, China will launch TianGong 1, also known as “target spacecraft”, which is spacecraft module equipped with two docking ports to serve as a target for rendezvous docking operations, first with the unmanned ShenZhou 8 spacecraft in 2011, followed by the manned ShenZhou 9 spacecraft shortly after. The launch of TianGong 1 target spacecraft is scheduled in late 2010, using a modified CZ-2F/G space launch vehicle with increased payload capability and improved onboard electronic system.
According to a report by the Chinese state-run CCTV on 1 March 2009, TianGong 1 is designed to provide a 'safe room' for Chinese astronauts to live and conduct scientific research in zero gravity. Weighing about 8.5 tonnes, TianGong 1 is able to perform long-term unattended operation, which will be an essential step toward building a space station.
The TianGong 1 design will also be used to develop a cargo spacecraft, which will be fitted with rendezvous and docking port and used for resupplying and refuelling the future space station. The spacecraft will be launched from the newly-built Wenchang Satellite Launch Centre in Hainan Island [1].
Reference
- China to launch Tiangong-1 at the end of next year, People's Daily Online, 9 March 2009
Last update: 9 March 2009 |
