Overview
- The uncrewed return capsule touched down at the Dongfeng site on January 19 at 9:34 a.m. Beijing Time, according to the China Manned Space Agency.
- Cracks found in the viewport window were attributed to likely debris impact, leading authorities to rule the vehicle unsafe for crew return in November.
- An uncrewed Shenzhou-22 delivered a specially developed window crack treatment, which taikonauts installed after inspections that included a December 9 spacewalk.
- Post-landing checks found the exterior darkened by re-entry but generally intact, with returned items inside reported to be in good condition.
- China’s rolling backup posture continues as Shenzhou-23 arrives at Jiuquan to assume standby duties, with the Shenzhou-21 crew remaining on Tiangong until a later rotation.