神州9号与天宫1号再次对接

Qi Faren, the first chief designer of China's Shenzhou space module program, says Chinese astronauts will try to accomplish a manual docking.

He says the launching of the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft is scheduled to take place between June and August this year. Surveillance data indicate that Tiangong 1's inner environment and conditions meet the requirements for human beings.

"The automatic docking has been proved successful. The result is excellent. The conditions of Tiangong 1 are good enough for humans to live in them. The assembling of the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft has been completed, but we are still running detailed tests and experiments. The launch between June and August won't be a problem."

Qi Faren says Tiangong 1's supply duration is 60 days. That is to say, it can support one astronaut for 60 days, two for 30 days, and three astronauts for 20 days. The main task for Shenzhou 9 and Tiangong 1 will be whether astronauts will be able to dock them manually.

He also says two female astronauts are currently receiving training on manual dockings. But whether they will be assigned to the mission depends on their performance.

"The female astronauts are undergoing training, but it has not yet been decided whether to send them into space. I think they may join the mission if their performance can meet the requirements. We won't take any risks."

According to the general plan for China's manned spacecraft, the country will complete the construction of its own space station by 2020. With the International Space Station scheduled for retirement by 2020, China's space station may be the only one in orbit.

Qi Faren says China's space station's service will be open to members of the international community.

"It's estimated that by 2020, China's space station may be the only one in orbit. China's attitude is clear: This science platform will provide service not only for Chinese scientists, but for others as well. We hope scientists in other counties can also perform their work on this platform."

Over the past few years, China has ranked among the world's leading countries in certain major areas of space technology. In the next five years, there will be new opportunities for the country's space industry.

At the same time, China will work together with the international community to maintain a peaceful and clean space environment and endeavor to promote world peace and development.

For CRI, I am Li Dong.