Overview
- A Long March 2F rocket lifted off from Jiuquan on November 25 carrying the uncrewed Shenzhou-22 to the Tiangong space station.
- The launch reestablishes an assured evacuation option after a damaged Shenzhou-20 left the station without a safe return craft.
- CCTV reports Shenzhou-20 did not meet safety standards for crewed reentry and remains in orbit pending recovery and evaluation.
- The three astronauts now aboard Tiangong lacked a guaranteed lifeboat for more than ten days after Shenzhou-21 departed early.
- Officials indicate Shenzhou-22 is slated to serve as the current crew’s return vehicle in 2026, with Shenzhou-23 targeted for April 2026 to resume regular rotations.