Shenzhou 7´s start point

Source: CCTV.com | 09-25-2008 17:06

Shenzhou 7 will start its space journey from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, which has witnessed more than a thousand launches since it was completed fifty years ago. And for the launch of Shezhou 7, the Center has made special preparations over the last two years.

The most striking building in the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center is the Launch Tower with a height of a hundred and five meters.

"Let's see something we can't see when the launch is broadcast on TV here is a huge water pool the water will be vaporized after the rocket is ignited and all the water will become vapor in a blink."

The steel giant is referred to as the "umbilical tower". And its function is not only limited to holding the rocket and spaceship. It also serves as a power supplier before the Shenzhou 7 leaves the ground so that the power within the spaceship can be preserved.

"THIS is the ninth floor of the launch tower. In case of an accident, the astronauts will follow the sign on the ground running into down to the basement safe enough."

But safe equipment can't guarantee success. And the Center has conducted many trials ahead of the launch of Shenzhou 7.

Lu Jinrong, Chief Designer, Shenzhou 7 Launch Site System, said, "Number One is to train our people. And the mission of Shenzhou 7 is different from previous spaceship launches. We have developed a simulated launch system aiming at the Shenzhou 7 mission. The system is very effective in quick data analysis. In fact the testing of the entire system started in June of last year. "

The actual launch is the final step in the process, which also includes the assembly of the rocket and the spaceship, the loading of propellant, as well as the comprehensive testing of all components.

Wang Jun, Vice Director of Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, said, "It takes 7 days to load the spaceship with propellant, and six days to install the fairing on the spaceship. The workers must be extremely cautious in their every move, so as to ensure the safety of the spaceship."

A number of improvements have been made in the launch center ahead of the new mission. Propellant servicing and escape equipment in the launch tower has been upgraded.

The center is the busiest place before the launch while all those involved in the manned space flight are gathered here.

Cui Jijun, Chief Commander of Shenzhou 7 Launch Site System, said, "We are also responsible for the coordination of these systems. Every person must be in the right position. The staff we selected for this launch are all veterans. We have to make sure no one makes mistakes throughout the entire process."

The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center is the largest of its kind in China, and the only one used to launch spaceships. It also serves as the first telemetry, track and command station, and an alternative landing field.

　Interactive:  Be part of China's journey to space!

Editor:Zhang Pengfei