In a packed Beijing Aerospace City presser, Shenzhou-20’s Chen Tong, Chen Chongrui, and Wang Xie broke their post-space silence. The astronauts unpacked a mission defined by ingenuity, spotlighting a critical space debris breach that reshaped their homecoming.
The April 24, 2025 liftoff kicked off months of orbital duties. Nearing November 5 re-entry, a routine check uncovered window damage from probable debris collision, scrapping the original plan after expert review.
On November 14, a bold transfer to Shenzhou-21 ensured a secure landing at Tongfeng, followed by Shenzhou-22’s flawless integration into the station.
With poise, the crew relived the chaos: ‘The crack was unmistakable; we trusted our training,’ Chen Tong shared. Discussions ranged from emergency fixes to the joys of microgravity meals and collaborative science with international partners.
This close call amplifies calls for debris mitigation worldwide, as orbital traffic surges. China’s response – swift, secure, and successful – reaffirms its leadership in human spaceflight.
As the astronauts transition to debriefs, their narrative inspires: amid cosmic hazards, human resolve and tech triumphs pave the way for bolder explorations.