Shenzhou-20 Spacecraft Delayed: Crack in Spacecraft Window Alters China's Space Mission

China's Shenzhou-20 spacecraft, initially set to return its crew from a six-month mission on Beijing's Tiangong space station, was grounded mid-mission due to a crack in the return capsule's window. This incident marks the first delay in China's human spaceflight program, prompting an emergency response to ensure astronaut safety.

In an unprecedented move, China's first crewed spacecraft, Shenzhou-20, was deemed unfit to fly mid-mission, causing an unexpected delay in its return to Earth. The Shenzhou-20 crew discovered a crack in the return capsule's window, leading to safety concerns and a delay in the mission, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV.

Originally slated to bring astronauts back from a six-month mission on China's Tiangong space station, the Shenzhou-20 was left docked due to potential cabin depressurization risks. The astronauts returned to Earth on an alternative spacecraft nine days later while China initiated its first emergency space launch mission to mitigate risks.

China Manned Space Agency spokesperson Ji Qiming confirmed that Shenzhou-20 will return without a crew to gather experimental data. Designer Jia Shijin noted the crack was due to space debris, with potential grave consequences if worsened. The incident underscores the challenges in human spaceflight safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)