Shenzhou 7 re-entry module opened

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Source: CCTV.com | 10-02-2008 08:46

Scientists have opened the re-entry module of the Shenzhou 7 manned spacecraft and collected various experimental samples and data for further study.

Scientists have opened the re-entry module of the Shenzhou 7 manned spacecraft and collected various experimental samples and data for further study. (CCTV.com)

The module with three astronauts on board landed safely in central Inner Mongolia on Sunday and was transported by train to its maker, the China Academy of Space Technology in Beijing on Tuesday.

The objects inside the re-entry module were carefully taken out and handed over. Among the items displayed were the National Flag waved by Zhai Zhigang during his spacewalk, a test sample of solid lubricant collected outside the spacecraft, and the EVA gloves.

Due to the weight limit for the re-entry module, the EVA suits worn by the astronauts had to be left behind in the orbital module. They could only bring back the gloves as souvenirs of China's maiden spacewalk last Saturday.

The sample of solid lubricant had been exposed for 44 hours outside the spacecraft during the lift-off and orbit. Scientists will carry out tests to find out how the lubricant reacts to a low-earth orbiting environment.

The module itself will also be studied further.

Shang zhi, General Director of Shenzhou 7 Spacecraft System, said, "Experts will check the module's interior and exterior including the samples it carried, analyze their condition, and evaluate the data, so we make full and complete conclusions of the mission."

The astronauts also took some masterpieces of Chinese painting into space. They'll be auctioned and the proceeds will go to help reconstruction of the quake-zone in Sichuan province.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei