What was behind the 2 initial delays of the Tianzhou 2 launch?
30 May 2021
The launch Tianzhou 2 was originally set for around 1:30 BJT on 20 May. The launch was cancelled 2 hours before take-off because of an abnormal parameter in the pressure level readings. After a system functions check, the launch was scheduled for the early morning of 21 May. However, after liquid oxygen was refueled 8 hours before the scheduled launch time, abnormal signals once again occurred.
MORE...
Tianzhou 2 successfully docked with Tianhe in fast-track mode
30 May 2021
Tianzhou 2 successfully docked with Tianhe's rear hatch at 5:01 BJT. Next, it is programmed to conduct autonomous refueling operations and carry out some tests on equipment, according to the statement. The first crewed mission to the Tianhe module, Shenzhou 12, is expected for launch in June. Once the Shenzhou 12 taikonauts have settled in Tianhe, they will move goods and mission payloads from Tianzhou 2 to the core module.
MORE...
A closer look at Tianzhou 2
30 May 2021
The Tianzhou 2 cargo ship has a length of 10.6 m and a width of 14.9 m when its two solar arrays are fully deployed. With a maximum take-off weight of 13.5 t, it has a payload capacity of 6.9 t.
MORE...
MORE...
Shenzhou 12 mission will include EVAs but not woman taikonaut
31 May 2021
Yang Liwei, China's first taikonaut and Deputy Director of CMSA told Chinese media that the upcoming Shenzhou 12 mission will include EVAs of 2 crew members at a time for working in the open cosmos. However, all 3 crew members are trained for EVAs. The crew composition for the manned missions Shenzhou 12, 13, 14 and 15 is concluded and will involve taikonauts from the from the 1st and 2nd batch of astronauts (2011 selection). While Shenzhou 12 will be a all-male crew, the 3 missions after SZ-12 will include always a female crew member. Those missions are planned as a 6 month stay in space. All taikonauts are undergoing intensive training to prepare them for their tasks.
MORE....