Engineers at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China conducted a full-region rehearsal on Wednesday to prepare for the upcoming Shenzhou-21 crewed spacecraft launch. This comprehensive dress rehearsal marks a crucial step toward mission readiness.
Key upgrades at the launch complex include a newly established data and operations center designed around centralized deployment and functional zoning. As Hu Yonggang explained, "The renovated communications room now supports remote operations and monitoring. Equipment status, room temperature and humidity and various parameters can be clearly observed, allowing staff to perform checks and troubleshooting efficiently."
To ensure every system runs smoothly, the site has adopted a differentiated maintenance strategy. Facilities and equipment undergo inspections based on their level, category and schedule, shifting management from broad coverage to precise control.
Precise temperature control of the launch tower is essential for both rocket integrity and propellant safety. The technical team has implemented detailed measures to maintain stable environmental conditions for testing and liftoff.
According to Zhang Fan, "With the support of big data from our intelligent operation center, we can assess ground equipment status in real time and dynamically adjust maintenance frequency. By aligning plans with the specific requirements of gas, electrical, hydraulic, and pressure systems, we've improved both the efficiency and quality of ground equipment inspections and maintenance."
The China Manned Space Agency has announced that Shenzhou-21 will lift off at an appropriate time in the near future, rounding out final preparations after this rigorous full-region rehearsal.
Reference(s):
Full rehearsal held for Shenzhou-21 manned spacecraft launch
cgtn.com
