HK and Macao astronauts expected to 'fly into space' as early as this year

Hong Kong

2026.02.27 13:30

HK and Macao astronauts expected to 'fly into space' as early as this year. (DotDotNews)

China's manned space program will deepen the development of its space station and lunar exploration missions in 2026 under the 15th Five-Year Plan, according to the China Manned Space Agency on Feb 27.

The space station is operating stably with 267 science projects implemented in orbit. Key achievements include 13 crewed EVAs, a world record for single EVA duration, and the selection of fourth-generation astronauts, including payload experts from Hong Kong and Macao.

This year, China plans two crewed missions and one cargo resupply flight. Astronauts from Hong Kong and Macao may fly to the space station this year, while one Shenzhou-23 crew member will conduct a one-year in-orbit stay.

For lunar exploration, the development of the Long March-10 rocket, Mengzhou spacecraft, and Lanyue lander is progressing steadily toward a crewed lunar landing by 2030. Major tests have been completed, with launch site construction underway at Wenchang.

In international cooperation, a Pakistani astronaut will join a short-term mission as a payload specialist to conduct scientific experiments aboard China's space station.

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Tag:·15th Five-Year Plan·China Manned Space Agency·Astronauts