China will launch the unmanned Shenzhou-22 spacecraft on November 25 to restore normal operations at its Tiangong space station. Shenzhou-22 replaces Shenzhou-21, which returned early after a docked vessel was damaged. The launch aims to secure the crew and continue China’s manned spaceflight program.
Shenzhou-21’s early departure left Tiangong and three astronauts without a flight-ready spacecraft for ten days. This created an unprecedented operational gap since the station became fully functional in late 2022. Therefore, the arrival of Shenzhou-22 is critical for stabilizing station operations and maintaining safety.
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The spacecraft will launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. Unlike previous missions, Shenzhou-22 will be unmanned to prevent exceeding the station’s ideal capacity of three long-term residents. This step ensures the crew can work safely without operational strain or overcrowding.
Meanwhile, experts are considering how to handle the damaged Shenzhou-20 vessel. It may be undocked and safely de-orbited over the Pacific Ocean. With Shenzhou-22 in place, Tiangong will continue its research missions and routine activities without further interruptions.
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China plans its next crewed mission, Shenzhou-23, around April 2026. The successful launch of Shenzhou-22 is essential for the continuity and reliability of the country’s manned space program.