Chinese astronauts face collision and adapt routine in space

Three Chinese astronauts remain in orbit at the Tiangong station after a piece of space debris damaged the return capsule of the Shenzhou-20 mission. The collision, confirmed by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), compromised the spacecraft’s hull, postponing the return scheduled for November 5, 2025. While engineers assess the safety of the capsule, the crew maintains a work and leisure routine, sharing space with the new Shenzhou-21 team, launched on November 1.

Life at the station, nicknamed the “Heavenly Palace”, combines discipline and innovation. Astronauts perform scientific experiments and maintenance tasks, adapting to the weightless environment. A video released by CCTV highlighted an unusual moment: the first Chinese space barbecue, with chicken wings prepared in an adapted oven.

• Daily exercises to prevent muscle loss
• Balanced meals with vacuum-packed foods
• Experiments with aquatic worms and debris shields

Scientific experiments in orbit

The Shenzhou-20 crew conducts tests with aquatic flatworms, studying their regeneration in microgravity. These experiments could bring advances to regenerative medicine. Additionally, the team is installing new shields against space debris, a preventive measure following the capsule incident.

Routine in space

Astronauts dedicate around two hours a day to physical exercise, essential for maintaining health in orbit. The routine includes Earth observation and video calls with family members. The meals, although practical, allow for creativity, such as the preparation of the space barbecue, which symbolizes the team’s ability to adapt.

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Adapting to the unexpected

The collision with the debris required adjustments to the mission. The damaged capsule is under analysis to determine whether it can be repaired or whether an alternative plan will be required. The arrival of Shenzhou-21 brought reinforcements, allowing the division of tasks and the continuity of experiments. CMSA monitors the situation, prioritizing crew safety. The astronauts’ resilience keeps the mission active, even in adverse conditions.

Space barbecue: a milestone

The video of the barbecue, with wings floating in the oven, went viral in China, reinforcing the image of innovation of the Chinese space program. The action, planned as a moment of relaxation, highlights the humanization of life in space and Tiangong’s technological advancement.

Cooperation between crews

The integration between the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 mission teams guarantees the operation of the station. The crewsThey share responsibilities, such as systems maintenance and scientific experiments, optimizing work in orbit. The joint effort reflects the organization of the Chinese space program, which plans to expand Tiangong by 2030.

Planning for your return

The CMSA has not yet set a date for the return of Shenzhou-20. Engineers assess whether the capsule can be repaired or whether a new rescue mission will be necessary. Meanwhile, the crew maintains their routine, demonstrating preparation and resilience in the face of the unexpected.