Tiny Debris, Big Impact: Shenzhou-20’s Upcoming Uncrewed Return
After a debris-induced crack on its viewport, China’s Shenzhou-20 will carry out a historic uncrewed return in December, generating vital safety data.
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After a debris-induced crack on its viewport, China’s Shenzhou-20 will carry out a historic uncrewed return in December, generating vital safety data.
China’s Shenzhou-20 spacecraft faced a window crack on November 5. An expert explains how tiny debris threats demand stronger shielding and how Shenzhou-22 supplied new gear.
On Nov 25, 2025, China launched the uncrewed Shenzhou-22 via Long March 2F Y22, its first emergency standby mission, to dock with Tiangong and secure the Shenzhou-21 crew’s safe return.
China’s Shenzhou-22 docked crewless to its space station on Nov 25, shifting to an unmanned cargo flight amid debris threats and showcasing a “one launch, one backup” safety model.
The Chinese mainland’s CMSA delays the Shenzhou-20 return mission after a suspected tiny debris impact. Impact analysis and risk assessment are under way to ensure astronaut safety.
Drills at Dongfeng landing site in north China’s Inner Mongolia have prepped air and ground teams, communication and medical support for the Shenzhou-20 crew’s safe return.
IAF’s Christian Feichtinger urges a unified global approach to mitigate asteroid and near-Earth object threats.
The Shenzhou-18 crew conducts vital fire alarm tests and health monitoring procedures aboard China’s space station, ensuring safety and mission success.
NASA confirms that debris from the International Space Station struck a Florida home, nearly injuring a resident. The 1.6-pound object is under investigation.