Chinese Astronauts Set Record with 9-Hour Spacewalk Outside Tiangong Space Station (Video)

Chinese Astronauts Set Record with 9-Hour Spacewalk Outside Tiangong Space Station (Video)

By Mike Wall | Published: Dec. 17, 2024

Two Chinese astronauts have made history by completing a record-breaking 9-hour extravehicular activity (EVA) outside the Tiangong space station. The mission, conducted from late Dec. 16 to early Dec. 17, surpassed the previous EVA duration record by 10 minutes, making it a significant milestone in space exploration.

Breaking Spacewalk Records

Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong, crew members of China's Shenzhou 19 mission, ventured outside Tiangong for 9 hours and 6 minutes. The previous record for the longest single EVA, set by NASA astronauts James Voss and Susan Helms in March 2001 aboard the International Space Station (ISS), stood at 8 hours and 56 minutes.

The China Manned Space Engineering Office (CMSEO) confirmed the successful operation, highlighting its importance for ongoing advancements in space technology and station maintenance.

Details of the Historic Spacewalk

Mission: Shenzhou 19

Duration: 9 hours and 6 minutes

Date: Dec. 16 - Dec. 17, 2024

Objective: Maintenance and testing of external equipment on Tiangong

Cai Xuzhe conducts a spacewalk outside China's Tiangong space station on Dec. 17, 2024. Image credit: CMSEO.

This EVA marked the first of its kind for the Shenzhou 19 mission, which docked at Tiangong on Oct. 29 for a six-month stay.

China's Role in Space Exploration

China's ambitious space program has positioned the nation as a key player in the new era of space exploration. With Tiangong now fully operational, China is increasingly contributing to scientific research and technological innovation in orbit.

FAQ

Q: Is China's space program surpassing NASA’s efforts?

A: While China has achieved significant milestones, including the Tiangong station, NASA remains a leader in space exploration with ongoing projects like the Artemis program. Both nations are advancing human exploration in unique ways.

Q: Why are so many nations investing in satellite and spacecraft launches?

A: Satellites are crucial for communication, navigation, weather monitoring, and scientific research. The growing interest reflects the strategic and economic importance of space technology for global development.

Key Takeaways

The Tiangong space station is becoming a central hub for Chinese space missions.

Shenzhou 19’s record-breaking EVA highlights China’s progress in manned spaceflight.

Space exploration remains a collaborative and competitive global effort.

Read More: 10 Ways China's Space Program Is Shaping the Future