China’s new scientific lab “Wentian Space Station Module” was launched recently onboard Long March 5B launch vehicle. The module was docked with the China’s under-construction space station on July 25, 2022.
Highlights of the launch:
- It was the second module of the three modules planned for the space station.
- Module launch took place from Wenchang Space Launch Centre on southern island of Hainan.
- It marked the third launch since the construction of Chinese Space Station started in April 2021.
- Second module is preceded by Tianzhou-class cargo spacecraft and Shenzhou-14 crewed spacecraft.
- Launch of Wentian will be followed by second lab module called Mengtian, which is scheduled to be launched in October 2022.
- Tianhe module is the core cabin module for the space station. Three astronauts are currently living there and are on a six-month mission.
Wentian Space Station Module:
Wentian Space Station Module has been designed to conduct science and biology experiments. It weighs 23-ton and is heavier as compared to other single-module spacecraft present in space. It is a 17.9 meters long module. Wentian module features an airlock cabin, which will act as the main exit-entry point for extravehicular activities after the construction of space station is completed. It will also serve the purpose of short-term living quarters for astronauts on crew rotations to the station.
Mengtian Module:
Mengtian Module is scheduled to be launched in October 2022. It will be docked with Tianhe, and form a T-shaped structure.