China to launch Shenzhou VI next year

cctv.com 02-21-2004 15:07

Wang Yongzhi, the chief designer of China's Space Program, says the country will launch its second manned spacecraft next year. Wang Yongzhi says the Shenzhou-VI is expected to carry two astronauts.

Shenzhou VI is designed to carry three astronauts, just like its predecessor. But whereas Shenzhou V took only one person into space, Shenzhou VI will carry two astronauts and stay in space for several days.

Wang said, "For now, we plan to put two astronauts into space and have them stay there for five to seven days. This will further test the capability of the spacecraft."

He says a dozen candidates are training hard for the flight, and parts of the rocket system for the Shenzhou-VI have been completed. Tests are underway on the spacecraft system. Wang also formally announced China's ambitious plan to develop its docking technology and launch a space laboratory by 2007. China's goal is to build its own space station.

Editor:Xiao  Source:CCTV.com