Shenzhou 6 in space

cctv.com 10-17-2005 13:57

This is a brief look at some of the highlights of the space flight performed by astronauts Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng.

Early morning October the 12, astronauts Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng bid farewell to their commander as they board the Shenzhou 6 spacecraft.

Two hours and forty minutes later, they were on their way into space.

At 9:00 am exactly, the Shenzhou 6 blasted off on a Long March carrier rocket.

Ten minutes later at an altitude of over 300 kilometers, it separated from the rocket and entered orbit around the earth.

Chen Bingde, Director of Shenzhou 6 Manned Space Program, said, "According to data gathered by satellite monitoring centers across the country, I can now declare the launch of Shenzhou-6 a success."

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao was full of praise for the successful launch.

Wen said, "China's manned space flights show that our country wants to contribute more to science and the peaceful development of mankind. Of course, we still have challenges to overcome. I hope everyone can continue working hard to ensure the normal orbiting of the spacecraft as well as the safe return of the astronauts. "

Having circled the Earth five times, Shenzhou-6 changed route to adjust its oval orbit to a near-circular orbit. This step was essential for the spaceship to keep on track and ensure an eventual accurate landing.

Later in day one, the two astronauts were able to speak with their families back here on Earth. Their wives and children were at the Beijing Aerospace Command and Control Center. They both thanked their families for their support and said they would do everything within their power to make the mission a success. Nie Haisheng's wife wished her husband a very special 41st birthday. And his daughter sang her best wishes.

By noon on Thursday, Beijing time, Shenzhou-6 had orbited the Earth 19 times, a distance of 680,000 kilometers. Despite some strong radioactive disturbance from the southern Atlantic region, the spacecraft continued on its flight undeterred, and the astronauts completed their tasks as planned.

Early on Saturday, Chinese President Hu Jintao spoke with the two astronauts from the Beijing Aerospace Command and Control Center.

Hu said, "Comrades, you have done a good job. The successful launch and normal operation of the Shenzhou-6, China's second manned spacecraft, is the result of your joint efforts. The motherland and the people thank you both and everyone here at mission control for your work. I trust that you all will continue to work hard and ensure the safe and smooth return of the re-entry module."

Fei Junlong, Shenzhou 6 astronaut said, "Thank you for your concern and the support of the people. I promise we will complete our mission."

Apart from their conversation with the president, the astronauts spent most of their fourth day in space doing scientific research. They monitored their physical condition, and conducted tests to see if their space suits are fully airtight. They also carried out experiments to see how the spacecraft's equipment was doing in zero gravity.

Editor:Chen Zhuo  Source:CCTV.com