Yesterday, on November 30, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) unveiled a new video showcasing the Shenzhou-21 crew’s latest tasks aboard the space station. Astronauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang are steadily advancing a series of in-orbit operations essential to long-duration missions.
One highlight: the team used specially configured laptops to investigate how objects move in microgravity. By tracking trajectories and acceleration data, they’re helping researchers refine equipment designs for future flights. Routine maintenance also featured prominently—crew members replaced key experimental modules to ensure seamless operation of ongoing studies.
Health monitoring remains a top priority. The astronauts completed a set of biometric tests, sending vital signs and medical data back to ground teams in real time. These checks help scientists understand how extended stays in orbit impact human physiology and inform countermeasures for muscle and bone loss.
Last week, the Shenzhou-21 crew performed their first full-system pressure emergency drill in orbit. The simulation of an internal depressurization scenario tested both on-board protocols and ground-to-space communication. Ground controllers praised the crew’s swift response and collaboration, essential skills for any future contingencies.
Launched on October 31, 2025, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the northwest of the Chinese mainland, Shenzhou-21 continues to push the boundaries of crewed spaceflight. As their mission progresses through December, all eyes remain on their next series of experiments and station upkeep activities.
This footage offers a front-row seat to life in orbit, inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers around the world.
Reference(s):
Cool China: Shenzhou-21 crew's latest in-orbit work released
cgtn.com
