In 2019, 78 people were killed in

The Tiangong, or “Heavenly Palace,” space station has made China a major contender in space, especially since it was entirely Chinese-builtover U.S. national security concerns. China’s space program is controlled by the People’s Liberation Army, the military branch of the ruling Communist Party.

The addition of mechanical arms to the three-module station has also raised concerns from some that China could use them to disable satellites or other space vehicles during a crisis.Since first launching a man into space in 2003 — becoming only the third country to do so — China’s space program has advanced at a steady pace. The space agency has alsoand a rover on the less-explored far side of the moon, and aims

The Shenzhou, or “Celestial Vessel,” 20 mission will be commanded by Chen Dong, who is making his third flight. He will be accompanied by fighter pilot Chen Zhongrui and engineer Wang Jie, both making their maiden voyages, according to the Manned Space Agency. Unlike previous crews, Shenzhou 20 is entirely male.They will replace three astronauts currently on the Chinese space station. Like those before them, they will stay on board for roughly six months.

The space ship is due to be launched into space atop China’s workhorse Long March 2F rocket at 5:17 p.m. local time (0917 GMT) and reach the Tiangong about 6.5 hours later.

The three-person crew was sent in October last year and they have been in space for 175 days. They are due to return on April 29 after a brief overlap with their replacements. The Tiangong, fully assembled in October 2022, can accommodate up to six people at a time.Amanda Beltramini Healan stands among the plants in her backyard in Nashville, Tenn., Monday, May 19, 2025, where she participates in No Mow Months to improve water retention and encourage pollinators. (AP Photo/Kristin M. Hall)

Amanda Beltramini Healan stands among the plants in her backyard in Nashville, Tenn., Monday, May 19, 2025, where she participates in No Mow Months to improve water retention and encourage pollinators. (AP Photo/Kristin M. Hall)Local authorities apparently didn’t appreciate her natural look: “I got a letter from the city saying that I had to mow it,” she said.

But then, a friend told her about No Mow Month signs, provided by the, a local water conservation nonprofit. Soon she was signaling to the city that she’s no derelict, but a participant in an international movement.