12 October 2005 -- China today launched its second manned space flight, sending two astronauts into earth orbit on an expected five-day mission.
The astronauts -- Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng, two former Chinese fighter pilots -- blasted off aboard a Shenzhou 6 capsule from a remote launch site in China's northwestern desert.
The liftoff was broadcast live on Chinese state-run television.
Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao has praised the launch as a "success" and congratulated all the personnel involved.
Two years ago, China successfully carried out its first manned space mission, joining the former Soviet Union and the United States as the only countries to send humans into orbit.
(Reuters/AP/AFP)
See also:
Beijing In Pursuit Of Major Status As Space Power
U.S.: Is Country Losing Competitive Edge In Technology Industry?
The liftoff was broadcast live on Chinese state-run television.
Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao has praised the launch as a "success" and congratulated all the personnel involved.
Two years ago, China successfully carried out its first manned space mission, joining the former Soviet Union and the United States as the only countries to send humans into orbit.
(Reuters/AP/AFP)
See also:
Beijing In Pursuit Of Major Status As Space Power
U.S.: Is Country Losing Competitive Edge In Technology Industry?