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{{Future spaceflight}}
{{Short description|2008 Chinese crewed spaceflight}}
{{Infobox spaceflight
| name = Shenzhou 7
| image = Shenzhou 7 spacecraft model 1.jpg
| image_caption = Shenzhou 7 spacecraft model
| image_size =
| insignia =


| mission_type =
{{Infobox Space mission|
| operator =
mission_name = ''Shenzhou 7'' (神舟七号)|
| COSPAR_ID = 2008-047A
insignia = |
| SATCAT = 33386
sign = |
| mission_duration = 2 days, 20 hours, 27 minutes
crew_members = 3 |
| orbits_completed =
launch_pad = [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center]] |
launch = First window: [[September 25]]th at 21:10 [[China standard time|CST]] <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gmw.cn/content/2008-09/12/content_836040.htm|title=神七首选9月25日晚9时10分左右发射|publisher= [[光明网]]|date=[[2008-09-12]]|accessdate=2008-09-12}}</ref> to [[September 30]]th|
landing = |
crew_photo = |
crew_caption =|
next = ''[[Shenzhou 8]]''|
previous = ''[[Shenzhou 6]]''|
duration = |
orbits = |
}}


| spacecraft_type = [[Shenzhou (spacecraft)|Shenzhou]]
'''''Shenzhou 7''''' ({{zh-sp|s=神舟七号|p=shén zhōu qī hào}}) will be the third Chinese [[human spaceflight]]. This mission will start the second phase of [[Project 921]].
| manufacturer =
| launch_mass =
| landing_mass =


| launch_date = {{start-date|25 September 2008, 13:10:04.988|timezone=yes}}&nbsp;UTC<ref name="JSR600" />
The mission will use the [[Shenzhou spacecraft]] and was initially expected to be launched in October 2008 on a [[Long March 2 rocket family|Long March-2F]] (CZ-2F) launch vehicle.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071120/ap_on_sc/china_space;_ylt=AlY9TmqX4L5d8TLlL7v1tjkPLBIF|title=China manned mission to follow Olympics |date=[[2006-11-20]]|accessdate=2007-11-20}}</ref>
| launch_rocket = [[Long March 2F]]
The mission is scheduled to last 3 to 5 days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.longhoo.net/gb/longhoo/news/tech/userobject1ai796208.html|title ="神七""神九"将太空对接 "神七"准备工作顺利|publisher= [[龙虎新闻中心]]|date=March 4, 2008|accessdate=May 1|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
| launch_site = [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center|Jiuquan]] [[Jiuquan Launch Area 4|LA-4/SLS-1]]
The spacecraft has already been flown to Jiuquan. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cctv.com/video/zhongguoxinwen/2008/07/zhongguoxinwen_300_20080710_35.shtml|title=【视频】神舟七号飞船运抵中国酒泉卫星发射中心|publisher= [[中国中央电视台]]|date=[[2008-07-10]]|accessdate=2008-07-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90776/90881/6438150.html |title=神舟七号飞船运抵酒泉 任务进入全面实施阶段|publisher= [[人民网]]|date=[[2008-07-11]]|accessdate=2008-07-11}}</ref> The [[Long March 2 rocket family|CZ-2F]] carrier rocket has been assembled and is ready to be sent to the launch center. <ref name="CZ-2F"/>


| landing_date = {{end-date|28 September 2008, 09:37|timezone=yes}}&nbsp;UTC<ref name="landing_chinawindow" />
According to a controversial [[Wen Wei Po|Wenhui Journal]] report, unlike previous missions, China has for the first time brought forward the launch window. The launch of Shenzhou Ⅶ is now expected to take place between the end of the [[2008 Summer Paralympics|Beijing Paralympics]] on [[September 17]]th and China's National Day on [[October 1]]st. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://trans.wenweipo.com/gb/paper.wenweipo.com/2008/09/02/YO0809020007.htm|title=神舟七号提前至月底升空|publisher= [[Wen Wei Po|香港文汇报]]|date=[[2008-09-02]]|accessdate=2008-09-02}}</ref> In this regard, [[Yang Liwei]], one of the candidate for the mission said he also learned the news by reading the newspapers, adding:
| landing_site = [[Siziwang Banner]]<br/>Central [[Inner Mongolia]]{{vague|date=September 2013}}


| orbit_epoch =
| orbit_reference = [[geocentric orbit|Geocentric]]
| orbit_regime = [[low Earth orbit|Low Earth]]
| orbit_periapsis =
| orbit_apoapsis =
| orbit_inclination =
| orbit_period =
| apsis = gee


| crew_size = 3
{{cquote|'''消息来源以新华社发布的为准。'''
| crew_members = [[Zhai Zhigang]]<br/>[[Liu Boming (astronaut)|Liu Boming]]<br/>[[Jing Haipeng]]
| crew_callsign =
| crew_EVAs = 1
| crew_EVA_duration = 22&nbsp;minutes
| crew_photo = Shenzhou 7 Crew Montage.jpg
| crew_photo_caption = Zhai, Liu and Jing


| previous_mission = [[Shenzhou 6]]
[[Xinhua News Agency]] is the most authoritative source of official informations.<br>
| next_mission = [[Shenzhou 8]]
|200|100|''[[Chinese National Space Administration|CNSA]] [[Astronaut]] Major General [[Yang Liwei]]''<ref>{{cite web |url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7808113.html|title=杨利伟：将随时准备接受神七飞行任务|publisher=[[人民网]]|date=2008-09-05|accessmonthday=September 5|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
| programme = [[Shenzhou program|Shenzhou]] missions
}}
}}


'''Shenzhou 7''' ({{zh|s=神舟七号|t=神舟七號|p=Shénzhōu Qī Hào}}) was the third [[human spaceflight]] mission of the [[Chinese space program]]. The mission, which included the first Chinese [[extra-vehicular activity]] (EVA) carried out by crew members [[Zhai Zhigang]] and [[Liu Boming (astronaut)|Liu Boming]], marked the commencement of the second phase of the Chinese government's [[Chinese space program#Notable spaceflight programs|Project 921]].
Thus, the official announcement by the Chinese space program spokesman reported by Xinhua revealed on [[September 6]]th, that the new launch window was set between [[September 25]]th and [[September 30|30]]th. The fuelling process of the Shenzhou spacecraft was also started. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/06/content_9815043.htm|title=“快讯：神七载人航天飞行将于9月25日至30日择机实施 |publisher= [[新华网 ]]|date=[[2008-09-06]]|accessdate=2008-09-07}}</ref>


The [[Shenzhou spacecraft]] carrying the three crew members was launched 25 September 2008, by a [[Long March 2F]] (CZ-2F) rocket which lifted off from the [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center]] at 21:10 CST.<ref name="JSR600" /><ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071120/ap_on_sc/china_space;_ylt=AlY9TmqX4L5d8TLlL7v1tjkPLBIF|title=China manned mission to follow Olympics |date=20 November 2006|access-date=20 November 2007}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> The mission lasted three days, after which the craft landed safely in [[Siziwang Banner]] in central [[Inner Mongolia]] on 28 September 2008, at 17:37 CST.<ref name="landing_chinawindow">{{cite web | url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/28/content_10128407.htm | title=Chinese taikonauts return as heroes after landmark spacewalk | publisher=China View | work=Window of China | date=28 September 2008 | access-date=28 September 2008 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081001021826/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/28/content_10128407.htm | archive-date=1 October 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.longhoo.net/gb/longhoo/news/tech/userobject1ai796208.html|title="神七""神九"将太空对接 "神七"准备工作顺利 (Shenzhou 7 and Shenzhou 9 to perform space rendezvous; Shenzhou 7 preparations for work going smoothly)|publisher=Longhu News Center|date=4 March 2008|access-date=1 May 2008|language=zh|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090213165352/http://news.longhoo.net/gb/longhoo/news/tech/userobject1ai796208.html|archive-date=13 February 2009}}</ref> The Shenzhou 7 EVA made the Chinese space program the third to have conducted an EVA. EVAs had previously been conducted by the space programs of the Soviet Union (later Russia) and the United States.
==New breakthroughs==


== Crew ==
===China's first three-person mission===
The crew for Shenzhou 7 was announced on 17 September 2008.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/17/content_10050286.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080918093549/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/17/content_10050286.htm | url-status=dead | archive-date=September 18, 2008 | title=China names first "spacewalker" astronaut | publisher=China View | work=Window of China | date=17 September 2008| access-date=28 September 2008}}</ref>
{{Spaceflight crew
| terminology = Crew Member
| position1 = Commander
| crew1_up = [[Zhai Zhigang]] {{Flagicon|CHN}}
| flights1_up = First
| position2 = Orbital module astronaut<ref name="host.planet4589.org">{{Cite web |url=http://host.planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.601 |title=Archived copy |access-date=2009-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090826061037/http://host.planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.601 |archive-date=2009-08-26 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| crew2_up = [[Liu Boming (taikonaut)|Liu Boming]] {{Flagicon|CHN}}
| flights2_up = First
| position3 = Descent module monitor astronaut<ref name="host.planet4589.org" />
| crew3_up = [[Jing Haipeng]] {{Flagicon|CHN}}
| flights3_up = First
}}


=== Backup crew ===
Among the highlights of the mission will be the first three-man crew of a Chinese spacecraft.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080429/18_125297_2f3e24cba953501.jpg|title =神舟七号出舱图|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=April 29, 2008|accessdate=April 29|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
{{Spaceflight crew
A total of six astronauts have currently been trained, three for conducting the mission and three others as a backup.
| terminology = Crew Member
The crew of the flight has not been announced. [[Yang Liwei]], [[Fei Junlong]] and [[Nie Haisheng]], the first three indigenously launched Chinese people, are all in training for the flight. According to Yang, they could possibly be chosen.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/China_Proceeding_With_Assembly_Shenzhou_7_Spacecraft_999.html|title=China Proceeding With Assembly Shenzhou 7 Spacecraft|date=[[2006-11-03]]|accessdate=2006-11-05}}</ref>
| position1 = Commander
| crew1_up = [[Chen Quan]] ([[:zh:陈全|陈全]])
| position2 = Orbital module astronaut<ref name="host.planet4589.org" />
| crew2_up = [[Fei Junlong]] ([[:zh:费俊龙|费俊龙]])
| position3 = Descent module monitor astronaut<ref name="host.planet4589.org" />
| crew3_up = [[Nie Haisheng]] ([[:zh:聂海胜|聂海胜]])
}}


Of the back-up crew, only Chen Quan had not previously flown in space.
Recently, on a single day on three different Chinese websites, three astronauts have been singled out as the likely crew: [[Wu Jie]], [[Zhai Zhigang]] and [[Fei Junlong]]. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7788059.html|title =“神七”航天员翟志刚成热门人选|publisher= [[人民网]]|date=September 4, 2008|accessdate=September 4|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.dayoo.com/china/200809/04/53868_4031260.htm|title =“神七”航天员翟志刚成热门人选|publisher= [[广州大洋网]]|date=September 4, 2008|accessdate=September 4|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
The first spacewalker might be [[Fei Junlong]]. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hdzxw.com/epaper/20080903/2/content_8.htm|title =“神七”提前至本月底升空 费俊龙很可能成中国太空行走第一人|publisher= [[海峡都市报]]|date=September 3, 2008|accessdate=September 4|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


== Mission highlights ==
According to recent internet sources, commemorative stamps and envelopes revealing the astronauts identities have already been printed ready to be sold after completion of the mission. Although the images where intentionally blurred, [[Zhai Zhigang]], [[Liu Boming (astronaut)|Liu Boming]] and [[Wu Jie]] (some sources claiming he looks more like [[Jing Haipeng]]) could still be recognized. <ref name="envelopes"> {{cite web|url=http://bbs.kljiyou.com/dv_rss.asp?s=xhtml&boardid=16&id=187047&page=1|title =“神舟七号载人航天飞行|publisher= [[ 快乐集邮论坛]]|date=September 5, 2008|accessdate=September 7|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


Shenzhou 7 was the first Chinese space mission to carry a three-person crew for several days and conduct a full operation. A total of six astronauts were trained, three to conduct the mission and three others to serve as a backup crew.
===China's first EVA spacesuits===


The [[Long March 2F]] rocket launched the Shenzhou 7 into an initial elliptical orbit of 200 x 330 kilometres inclined at 42.4 degrees on 25 September 2008. About seven hours later the spacecraft raised its orbit to a more circular orbit of 330 x 336&nbsp;km.<ref name="JSR600">{{cite web | last=McDowell | first=Jonathan | url=http://host.planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.600 | title=Jonathan's Space Report, Number 600 | work=[[Jonathan's Space Report]] | date=26 September 2008 | access-date=28 September 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727213633/http://host.planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.600 | archive-date=27 July 2012 | url-status=dead }}</ref> After three days in space, deorbit manoeuvres began on 28 September at 08:48, and the return module landed at 09:37 UTC at coordinates {{coord|42.278|N|111.355|E|display=inline|type:landmark_scale:3000000_region:CN}}.<ref name="JSR601Draft">{{cite web |last=McDowell |first=Jonathan |url=http://planet4589.org/space/jsr/latest.html |title=JSR No. 601 draft |work=[[Jonathan's Space Report]] |date=29 September 2008 |access-date=29 September 2008 }}</ref>
New spacesuits for the extra vehicular activity (舱外航天服) will be used, made with "advanced synthetics."<ref name="Xinhua_suits"/> June, 2007, reports in Chinese media indicated that 300 square meters of spacesuit material, with "characteristics such as fire and radiation resistance that meet spacewalk requirements", had been made.<ref name="Xhinhua_suit_material"/> The suit is designed for a spacewalk mission of up to seven hours.<ref name="Xinhua_suits"/> The suits will provide a breathable atmosphere and also allow the venting of astronaut wastes.<ref name="Xinhua_suits">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-06/01/content_6182498.htm|title =China's astronaut outfitters design material for spacewalk suits|publisher= [[Xinhua]]|date=June 1, 2007|accessdate=December 2|accessyear=2007}}</ref> The price of each suit is reported to exceed 160 millions [[RMB]]. <ref name="Xinhua_suits_price">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2006-09/21/content_5119752.htm|title =“神七”太空服每件造价1.6亿 将实现太空行走|publisher= [[新华网]]|date=September 21, 2006|accessdate=July 13|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
First pictures of the spacesuits have been published in the Chinese media. Although China has already imported the Russian [[Orlan spacesuit|Orlan-M]] ''Haiying'' (海鹰号航天服), for interface compatibility with the spacecraft and liability in case of unexpected outcomes reasons, the indigenously developed Chinese-made ''[[Feitian space suit|Feitian]]'' space suit (飞天号航天服) will be used for the EVA. The second astronaut remaining in the Orbital module should wear the Orlan-M spacesuit. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.sohu.com/20080722/n258298683.shtml|title =神七准备中俄产两套航天服 出舱者穿国产航天服|publisher= [[搜狐]]|date=July 22, 2008|accessdate=July 22|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/politics/2008-04/10/content_7949762.htm|title =航天专家：“神七”出舱服可能采用“中国制造”|publisher= [[Xinhua]]|date=April 10, 2007|accessdate=April 15|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080309/18_61875_a6b941aec51cf00.jpg|title =我们的仓外宇航服暴光了|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=March 9, 2008|accessdate=April 24|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080424/18_125297_817b041b18c832f.jpg|title =偶们宇航员进行水池训练的视频截图|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=April 24, 2008|accessdate=April 24|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
Early reports indicated that the spacewalk would use suits with small propulsion units.<ref name="Xhinhua_suit_material">{{cite web|url=http://www.china.org.cn/english/China/212561.htm|title=Astronaut Outfitters Design Material for Spacewalk Suits|author=Xhinhua News Agency|date=June 1, 2007|date-accessed=December 2, 2007}}</ref> But it is clear now that this technology has only been developed on American suits and neither used in the Chinese-made nor the Russian-made ones. The astronauts had been training with space suits since July 2007. Movements are seriously restricted in the suits as each weighs more than 110 kilograms.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90781/6218810.html|title =Chinese astronauts begin training for spacewalk|publisher= [[People Daily Online]]|date=July 18, 2007|accessdate=August 1|accessyear=2007}}</ref>


China has been congratulated by a number of foreign leaders for the successful completion of the mission,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/28/content_10129558.htm | title=Foreign leaders congratulate China on successful space mission | publisher=[[Xinhua]] | date=28 September 2008 | access-date=29 September 2008 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080929063820/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/28/content_10129558.htm | archive-date=29 September 2008 }}</ref> which marked a number of developments for China's space program, including several first-time achievements.
October 2006 reports quote [[Sun Laiyan]], head of CNSA as saying that "our foremost concern is safety and reliability."<ref name="Xinhua_2006_dev_apace">quotations attributed to Sun Laiyan, head of China National Space Administration (CNSA){{cite web|url=http://www.china.org.cn/english/news/186100.htm|accessdate=December 2|accessyear=2007|date=October 26, 2006|author=Xinhua News Agency|title=Shenzhou VII Development Progressing Apace}}</ref> Later, November 2007, reports quote [[China Academy of Space Technology|China Academy of Space Technology (CAST)]] researcher Pang Zhihao that the spacewalk suits have a belt and tether to the orbital module. The tether will "conduct communications and provide oxygen".<ref>''quotation attributed to Pang Zhihao, China Academy of Space Technology (CAST)'' {{cite web|url=http://www.shanghaidaily.com/sp/article/2007/200711/20071121/article_338871.htm|publisher=ShanghaiDaily.com|title=Manned space launch set for next October|date=November 21, 2007|accessed-date=December 2, 2007|author=Winny Wang}}</ref> The belt and tether combination are considered "safer" than alternatives.<ref>''quotation: Pang Zhihao, CAST'' {{cite web|url=http://www.bjreview.com.cn/science/txt/2007-11/21/content_86418.htm|title=3rd Manned Spaceship to Blast Off after Olympics|date=November 21, 2007|publisher=BeijingReview.com|accessdate=December 2|accessyear=2007}}</ref>


The Shenzhou 7 Mission won the 2009 Space Achievement Award<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nationalspacesymposium.org/symposium-awards |title=Symposium Awards &#124; National Space Symposium |access-date=2012-01-31 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090203060101/http://www.nationalspacesymposium.org/symposium-awards |archive-date=2009-02-03 }}</ref> from the ''[[Space Foundation]]''.
Nonetheless, the first spacewalk should use second generation EVA suits without the need of any tether. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7455393.html|title =“神七”总指挥：航天员出舱行走不系带|publisher= [[人 民 网]]|date=July 2, 2008|accessdate=July 2|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


=== Spacewalk ===
After three years of development, the space tether to be used with the Feitian space suit was reverse engineered by a [[Hunan]] company (华菱线缆公司). <ref>{{cite web|url=http://hn.rednet.cn/c/2008/09/08/1588139.htm|title= 神七“脐带线”湖南造
[[File:ShenzhouVII.jpg|thumb|right|Space capsule of Shenzhou 7 at a 'homecoming' exhibition in Hong Kong]]
|publisher= [[湖南红网]]|date=September 8, 2008|accessdate=September 8|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


On 27 September, [[Zhai Zhigang]], wearing a Chinese-developed [[Feitian space suit]], conducted a 22-minute space walk, the first ever for a Chinese astronaut.<ref name="JSR601">{{cite web |last=McDowell |first=Jonathan |url=http://planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.601 |title=JSR No. 601 |work=[[Jonathan's Space Report]] |date=2008-10-12 |access-date=2012-07-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212145624/http://www.planet4589.org/space/jsr/back/news.601 |archive-date=2012-02-12 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="First_Chinese EVA">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10122420.htm|title=Taikonaut Zhai's small step historical leap for China|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=27 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081001020959/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10122420.htm|archive-date=1 October 2008}}</ref> Zhai slipped out of the orbital module in a head-first position at around 16:43 (0843 GMT) and wandered around the orbital module, retrieved experiment samples and waved the Chinese flag in space. The spacewalk lasted about 20 minutes, with Zhai returning to the orbital module at 17:00.<ref name="First_Chinese spacewalk">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10121998.htm|title=Chinese taikonaut greets nation, world in first spacewalk|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=27 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928132401/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10121998.htm|archive-date=28 September 2008}}</ref> The first space walk was limited in scope: cables were used to tie Zhai to the handrail outside the orbital module, and his moving route was restricted to areas near the exits. [[Liu Boming (astronaut)|Liu Boming]], wearing a Russian [[Orlan space suit|Orlan-M]] suit, stayed in the airlock in the orbital module to provide help if necessary. Liu also conducted an EVA, standing up at 08:58 UTC to hand Zhai a flag.<ref name="JSR601" /> The third astronaut, [[Jing Haipeng]] remained in the re-entry module to monitor the general situation of the spacecraft.<ref name="division of work">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/27/content_10124543.htm|title=神七日志：第三天 (Shenzhou 7 log: Day 3)|language=zh|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=28 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080930155350/http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/27/content_10124543.htm|archive-date=30 September 2008}}</ref> By 09:00 UTC both astronauts were back inside and the hatch was closed.<ref name="JSR601" /> The space walk was broadcast live on Chinese media, and two cameras provided panoramic images.<ref name="double cameras">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/25/content_10110233.htm|script-title=zh:神七舱外新装2台摄像机拍摄航天员太空行走|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=25 September 2008|language=zh|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928044815/http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/25/content_10110233.htm|archive-date=28 September 2008}}</ref>
According to recent internet sources, commemorative stamps and envelopes already printed, ready to be sold after completion of the mission showed clearely a tether, a red striped Feitian space suit with "飞天" written in red on the right arm and a lone spacewalker. <ref name="envelopes"/>


The Feitian spacesuit is similar to the Orlan-M (known as ''Haiying'', 海鹰, in Chinese) in shape and volume and are designed for spacewalks of up to seven hours,<ref name="Xinhua_suits" /> providing oxygen and allowing for the excretion of bodily waste.<ref name="Xinhua_suits">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-06/01/content_6182498.htm|title=China's astronaut outfitters design material for spacewalk suits|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=1 June 2007|access-date=2 December 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080125005254/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-06/01/content_6182498.htm|archive-date=25 January 2008}}</ref> According to Chinese media reports, spacesuit materials with such features as fire and radiation resistance were developed by several civilian corporations and national institutes.<ref name="suits materials">{{cite web|url=http://www.yfu.cn/hyxx/kjqy/200607/35295.html|script-title=zh:神七出舱服装特种外层防护材料上海制造|publisher=中国服装款式网|date=2006-07-03|language=zh|access-date=28 September 2008|archive-date=2016-01-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109214807/http://www.yfu.cn/hyxx/kjqy/200607/35295.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="suits materials2">{{cite web|url=http://www.yfu.cn/hyxx/kjqy/200607/36572.html|script-title=zh:"神七"宇航服还是成都造|publisher=中国服装款式网|date=20 July 2006|language=zh|access-date=28 September 2008|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303173022/http://www.yfu.cn/hyxx/kjqy/200607/36572.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Each suit was reported to have cost 30 million [[Renminbi|RMB]] (about US$4.4 million).<ref name="BBC">{{cite news | publisher=BBC News | url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7637818.stm | title=Chinese astronaut walks in space |date=27 September 2008 | access-date=28 September 2008}}</ref><ref name="Xinhua_suits_price">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2006-09/21/content_5119752.htm|script-title=zh:"神七"太空服每件造价1.6亿 将实现太空行走|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=21 September 2006|access-date=13 July 2008|language=zh|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081010133535/http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2006-09/21/content_5119752.htm|archive-date=10 October 2008}}</ref> Except for the gloves of the Feitian suit, the space suits were not brought back to Earth.<ref name="China.org">{{cite web| url=http://www.china.org.cn/china/shenzhouVII_spacewalk/2008-09/25/content_16533059.htm |title =China's indigenous Feitian space suit|publisher=China.org |date=25 September 2008 |access-date=29 September 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://news.sina.com.cn/c/1|title=神七载人飞船返回舱搭载物亮相|publisher=[[Sina.com]]|date=1 October 2008|access-date=1 October 2008}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
===First use of a small monitoring satellite===


A fire alarm was reported to the control center at the beginning of the EVA, but it was confirmed to be a false alarm.<ref name="False fire alarm">{{cite web|url=http://www.china.org.cn/china/shenzhouVII_spacewalk/2008-09/27/content_16547908.htm|title=王兆耀解释为何打开舱门相当周折：不可能着火 (Wang Zhaoyao explains why opening the cabin doors is safe: It cannot catch fire)|publisher= [[Xinhua]]|date=27 September 2008|language=zh|access-date=28 September 2008}}</ref><ref name="False fire alarm english">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10123628_4.htm|title=Spokesman says fire alarm in Shenzhou-7 false, no fire breaks out|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=27 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090213205856/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10123628_4.htm|archive-date=13 February 2009}}</ref>
A hand launched small monitoring satellite (“伴星”) will be released. The [[CCD]] [[stereo camera]] (CCD立体相机) is similar to the one aboard [[Chang'e 1]]. This will provide 3D images of the spacecraft and spacewalking astronaut. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnhubei.com/news/kjxw/200806/t356436.shtml|title =外媒报道：中国首次太空行走拉开了序幕(图)|publisher= [[湖北楚天传媒网]]|date=June 27, 2008|accessdate=July 5|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


===China's first spacewalk ===
=== Solid lubricant experiment ===


Scientists conducted a solid lubricant exposure experiment during the mission. A piece of equipment the size of a book was installed on the outside wall of the orbital module, and was later retrieved during the space walk, after having been exposed in space for more than 40 hours. The experiment was aimed to study a lubricant which will be used for space-based moving components in future space facilities.<ref name="Solid lubricant experiment">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/26/content_10112553.htm|title=Chief designer says Shenzhou-7 has four tasks|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=26 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928044508/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/26/content_10112553.htm|archive-date=28 September 2008}}</ref>
The mission will conduct the first Chinese [[extra-vehicular activity]].
Two astronauts will enter the orbital module wearing EVA suits,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2008-06/12/content_8353454.htm|title =神七将于10月择机发射 1名航天员太空行走|publisher= [[新华网]]|date=June 12, 2008|accessdate=June 12|accessyear=2008}}</ref> but only one of them will actually [[spacewalk]] and conduct scientific experiments, while the second one will carefully monitor him from the Orbital module. <ref name="Xinhua_suits_price"/> In case of emergency, the second astronaut should provide help to the spacewalking astronaut. <ref name="second_astronaut"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2008-06/12/xin_0420605121410078265007.jpg|title =神七将于10月择机发射 1名航天员太空行走|publisher= [[新华网]]|date=June 12, 2008|accessdate=June 12|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cctv.com/video/wwwwxinwen/2008/06/wwwwxinwen_300_20080612_9.shtml|title =视频:神七飞行10月择机实施 1名航天员将太空行走|publisher= [[中国中央电视台]]|date=June 12, 2008|accessdate=June 17|accessyear=2008}}</ref> The third astronaut will remain in the pressurised Return module. The spacewalking astronaut will perform tasks such as installing equipment and "tightening screws".


=== Release of miniaturized satellite ===
The total duration of this first spacewalk should last less than one hour once outside the Orbital module. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7379782.html|title =神七航天员将出舱行走近1小时 释放小卫星
: {{Main|BanXing}}
|publisher= [[人民网]]|date=June 13, 2008|accessdate=June 17|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
A [[miniaturized satellite]] was released during the mission on 27 September at 19:24, after Zhai returned to the spacecraft. The satellite was a cube about {{convert|40|cm|in|abbr=on}} long, with a mass of {{convert|40|kg|lb}}; it carried boost devices and two 150-megapixel [[stereo cameras]].<!--An English source would be preferable here--><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/24/content_10104656.htm|title=伴飞小卫星将给神七"照相"(Banfei miniature satellite to "take pictures" of Shenzhou 7)|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=24 September 2008|language=zh|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928104838/http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/24/content_10104656.htm|archive-date=28 September 2008}}</ref> The satellite's tasks included testing the mini-satellite technology, observing and monitoring the spacecraft, and testing the tracking and approaching technology used for [[Space rendezvous|space rendezvous and docking]].<ref name="miniaturized satellite">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10123015.htm|title=Shenzhou-7 launches small monitoring satellite|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=27 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928132231/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-09/27/content_10123015.htm|archive-date=28 September 2008}}</ref>


The miniaturized satellite took photos and videos near the spacecraft, then maneuvered to about {{convert|100|to|200|km|mi}} away from the spacecraft. After the return module separated from the spacecraft and re-entered the atmosphere, the satellite caught up to the orbiting spacecraft using a liquid ammonia engine, then continue to orbit around the spacecraft. The mini-satellite will work for about three months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/24/content_10104787.htm|title=伴飞小卫星将"追赶"分离后的神七轨道舱 (Banfei miniature satellite to "chase" Shenzhou 7 orbital module after separation)|publisher=[[Xinhua]]|date=24 September 2008|access-date=24 September 2008|language=zh|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080927221510/http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-09/24/content_10104787.htm|archive-date=27 September 2008}}</ref>{{Update inline|date=July 2012|reason=that was 2008, it's now 2012}}
===China's first water training pool===


=== Data relay satellite ===
Pictures of a large pool filled with water containing the entire Shenzhou spacecraft used for the EVA training have been published in the Chinese media.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080424/18_125297_7634aa5c8debc93.jpg|title =舱外服|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=April 24, 2008|accessdate=April 28|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080424/18_119674_0c5fa94793e1099.jpg|title =CCTV公开中国供航天员太空出舱训练用的巨型水池（一）|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=April 24, 2008|accessdate=April 28|accessyear=2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.war-sky.com/forum/attachment/Day_080424/18_119674_3958aaa3a17b7cc.jpg|title =CCTV公开中国供航天员太空出舱训练用的巨型水池（二）|publisher= [[虚幻军事天空]]|date=April 24, 2008|accessdate=April 28|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


China launched its first [[communication satellite|data relay satellite]], called ''[[Tianlian I-01|Tianlian I]]'' (天链一号), from the [[Xichang Satellite Launch Center]] on a [[Long March 3C|Long March-3C]] carrier rocket on 25 April 2008.<ref name="Tianlian I">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-04/26/content_8052455.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080429170953/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-04/26/content_8052455.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 29, 2008|title=China blasts off first data relay satellite|publisher= [[Xinhua]]|date=26 April 2008|access-date=28 September 2008}}</ref> The Tianlian I satellite will be used to speed up communication between the Shenzhou 7 spacecraft and the ground stations, and to increase the amount of data that can be transferred to the ground. The Tianlian I satellite alone can cover 50 percent of the orbit of Shenzhou 7—whereas the [[Yuanwang]] space tracking ships, along with China's ten ground observation stations, have a coverage of only 12 percent—and thus will increase the total coverage to about 62 percent of the mission.<ref name="Solid lubricant experiment" />
===China's first extraterrestrial Communist Party branch===


== Mission support and preparation ==
According to Yang Liwei, the crew members may convene an [[extraterrestrial]] orbital [[Communist Party of China|Communist Party of China (CPC)]] branch.<ref name="CPC"/> A remote locality with three or more Chinese Communist Party (CPC) members, such as a Shenzhou capsule with a full complement aboard, may conduct the business of a CPC branch.<ref name="CPC">{{cite web|title=Taikonauts may build Communist Party branch in space|url=http://www.china.org.cn/english/congress/228755.htm|accessed-date=December 2, 2007|publisher=Xinhua News Agency|date=October 18, 2007}}</ref>
{{more citations needed|section|date=September 2017}}<!--many CN tags-->


=== Subsystems ===
==Other modifications and additions==
The Shenzhou 7 project consists of seven subsystems, with the Chinese military responsible for launching, recovering, crew, and tracking subsystems, [[China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation]] responsible for the carrier rocket and spacecraft itself, and the [[Chinese Academy of Sciences]] responsible for the payloads on board the spacecraft (other than the crew).{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}}


===Space toilets===
=== Water training pool ===
A columniform water training pool of {{convert|23|m|ft}} in diameter and {{convert|10|m|ft}} in depth, located in China Astronaut Training Center, simulates the weightlessness experienced in space. A model of the Shenzhou orbital module has been used in the pool to train the crew for the space walk.<ref name="Water pool">{{cite web|url=http://news.sohu.com/20080925/n259736731.shtml|title=10米水下"太空漫步" (A "space stroll" under 10 meters of water)|publisher= [[Sohu.com]]|date=25 September 2008|access-date=28 September 2008|language=zh}}</ref>


=== Modifications to the CZ-2F carrier rocket ===
Tailor made compact size foldable space toilets will allow to recycle the collected urine to be reused as drinking water for the astronauts. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kuaibao.net/html/2008-09/03/content_64419025.htm|title =神七厕所南京制造
|publisher= [[现代快报]]|date=September 3, 2008|accessdate=September 3|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


Special attention has been paid to solving vibration problems that were encountered 120 seconds into the [[Shenzhou 5]] mission. These vibrations were described by Shenzhou 5 astronaut [[Yang Liwei]] as hard to endure.{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}} Corrective measures were implemented for the [[Shenzhou 6]] mission,{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}} but since then more improvements have been added to the [[Long March 2F|carrier rocket]], to the pipes of the second stage, and to more than thirty other parts of the spacecraft..{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}}
===Modifications of the CZ-2F carrier rocket===


=== Modifications to the spacecraft ===
Special attention has been given to solve vibration problems encountered at the 120 seconds of the [[Shenzhou_5|Shenzhou-5]] mission, vibrations described by [[Yang Liwei]] as hard to endure. First corrective mesures have already been implemented for the [[Shenzhou-6]] mission but further improvements have been added to the carrier rocket, and to the pipes of the second stage. More than thirty other modifications have also been added. Finaly, the entire flight will be broadcasted due to the addition of one more camera. <ref name="CZ-2F">{{cite web|url=http://www.chinanews.com.cn/gn/news/2008/07-19/1317666.shtml|title="神七"运载火箭完成总装和出厂测试 今将出征|publisher= [[中国新闻网]]|date=[[2008-07-19]]|accessdate=2008-07-19}}</ref>


The [[Orbital module]] has been modified and its solar panels removed in order to allow for the EVA experiment. For this same reason, in contrast to previous Shenzhou missions, it will not remain in space after its separation with the departing crew in the Return module.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.ifeng.com/mil/2/200806/0626_340_617870_3.shtml|title=神八2010年首飞 运载火箭将有重大变化 (Delivery rockets for 2010 maiden flight of Shenzhou 8 to undergo major changes)| publisher= Phoenix TV |date=26 June 2008|access-date=8 July 2008|language=zh}}</ref> Handrails have been added to the external wall of the Orbital module to allow the space walking astronaut to reach specific experiment areas.<ref name="second_astronaut">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2008-06/12/xin_0420605121410078265007.jpg|script-title=zh:神七准备中俄产两套航天服 出舱将穿国产服|publisher=[[People's Daily]]|date=23 July 2008|access-date=23 July 2008|language=zh|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081001161804/http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2008-06/12/xin_0420605121410078265007.jpg|archive-date=1 October 2008}}</ref>
===Modifications of the spacecraft===


More cameras have been installed on this spacecraft than on the Shenzhou 6 vessel, in addition to those covering the Orbital module and the Return module.<ref name="Xinhua_suits_price" />
The [[Orbital module]] will be modified and its solar panels removed in order to allow the EVA experiment. For this same reason, contrary to previous Shenzhou missions, it will not remain in space after its separation with the departing crew in the Return module. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.ifeng.com/mil/2/200806/0626_340_617870_3.shtml|title=神八2010年首飞 运载火箭将有重大变化(组图)| publisher= [[凤凰资讯]]|date=June 26, 2008|accessdate=July 8|accessyear=2008}}</ref> Handrails have been added to the external wall of the Orbital module to allow the space walking astronaut to reach specific experiment areas. <ref name="second_astronaut">{{cite web|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/tech/2008-06/12/xin_0420605121410078265007.jpg|title =神七准备中俄产两套航天服 出舱将穿国产服|publisher= [[人民网]]|date=July 23, 2008|accessdate=July 23|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
More cameras will be installed on the spacecraft than on the Shenzhou 6 vessel, in addition to those covering the Orbital module and the Return module. <ref name="Xinhua_suits_price">


=== New space tracking ships ===
Two new, recently commissioned [[Yuan Wang class tracking ship|Yuanwang-class tracking ships]], Yuanwang-5 and Yuanwang-6, played a key role in the Shenzhou VII mission.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7170743.html|script-title=zh:我国新一代航天远洋测量船完成海上设备精度鉴定|publisher=China Government online|date=10 July 2007|access-date=11 July 2008|language=zh|archive-date=10 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610041047/http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7170743.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>


===New space tracking ships===
=== Toilets ===


Custom-made, compact, foldable toilets allow the astronaut's collected urine to be scientifically inspected.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kuaibao.net/html/2008-09/03/content_64419025.htm |title=神七厕所南京制造 (Nanjing manufactures Shenzhou 7 toilets) |publisher=[[Xinhua]] |date=3 September 2008 |access-date=3 September 2008 |language=zh |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214044740/http://www.kuaibao.net/html/2008-09/03/content_64419025.htm |archive-date=February 14, 2009 }}</ref>
Two new [[Yuanwang]]-class space tracking ships, Yuanwang-5 and Yuanwang-6 recently commisioned will play a key role in the Shenzhou VII mission.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7170743.html|title =我国新一代航天远洋测量船完成海上设备精度鉴定|publisher= [[中国政府网]]|date=July 10, 2007|accessdate=July 11|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


===Data relay satellite===
=== Project management ===
Most of the [[Shenzhou 6]] [[Shenzhou 6#Mission highlights|project management team]] has stayed for the Shenzhou 7 mission. Changes in personnel include:
* General Project Manager and Commander [[Chen Bingde]] has been replaced, after his promotion to the position of Chief of the General Staff, by the current Director-General of the [[General Armaments Department]], [[Chang Wanquan]].{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}}
* First Vice General Project Manager and Commander Lieutenant General [[Hu Shixiang]] ({{lang|zh|胡世祥}}) has been replaced by the current Vice Director-General of the [[General Armaments Department]], [[Lieutenant General]] [[Zhang Jianqi]] ({{lang|zh|张建启}}){{Citation needed|date=September 2008}}
* Vice General Project Manager and Commander [[Zhang Qingwei]] has been replaced after his promotion to head of the [[ACAC consortium]], by [[Ma Xingrui]], the head of [[China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation]]
* Vice General Engineer of [[Shenzhou 6]], [[Zhou Jianping]] ({{lang|zh|周建平}}) was promoted to General Engineer of Shenzhou 7, succeeding [[Wang Yongzhi]].{{Citation needed|date=September 2008}}
* Director of the [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center]]: [[Major General]] [[Zhang Yulin]] ({{lang|zh|张育林}}) has been replaced, after his promotion to Chancellor of the [[National University of Defense Technology]], by the Vice Director of [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center]] [[Major General]] [[Cui Jijun]] ({{lang|zh|崔吉俊}})


== Controversy ==
China launched its first ever [[data relay satellite]] (数据中继卫星) '''[[Tianlian I-01|Tianlian I]]''' (天链一号) from the [[Xichang Satellite Launch Center]] on a [[Long March 3C|Long March-3C]] carrier rocket on April 25, [[2008]]. Specially developed by [[China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation]] to increase the communication time between the Shenzhou VII spaceship and the ground, it will also improve the amount of data that can be transferred. The Tianlian I satellite alone can cover 50 percent of the orbit of Shenzhou 7 while the [[Yuanwang]] space tracking ships along with China's over ten ground observation stations have a coverage of only 12 percent, thus increasing the total coverage to about 60 percent.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7170743.html|title =我国首颗中继卫星发射成功 将测控神七飞行|publisher= [[人民网]]|date=April 26, 2008|accessdate=April 27|accessyear=2008}}</ref>


According to the [[United States Strategic Command]], at 15:07 Greenwich Mean Time on 27 September 2008, the Shenzhou 7 ship passed within 45 kilometers of the [[International Space Station]]. There is no international laws defining distance of passage of outer space objects. China did not respond to queries about why it allowed its ship to pass so close to the space station. Richard Fisher, a senior fellow at the International Assessment and Strategy Center, in an opinion piece in the ''Wall Street Journal'' noted that the Shenzhou 7 had launched its companion satellite [[BX-1]] four hours earlier. The IASC is a "think-tank" focused on medium and long-term security issues and their impact on the security of the United States and her key allies. He noted "China's track record of using all of its Shenzhou missions since 1999 for dual military-civil missions," and speculated that China may have used the opportunity to pass near the space station to test "co-orbital" antisatellite interception technology.<ref>Fisher, Richard D., Jr., "[http://s.wsj.net/article/SB122539460905385099.html China's Close Call] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130619061423/http://s.wsj.net/article/SB122539460905385099.html |date=2013-06-19 }}", ''[[The Wall Street Journal Asia]]'', 31 October 2008, p. 15.</ref>
===New space tracking ships===


== See also ==
Two new [[Yuanwang]]-class space tracking ships, Yuanwang-5 and Yuanwang-6 recently commisioned will play a key role in the Shenzhou 7 mission.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/7170743.html|title =我国新一代航天远洋测量船完成海上设备精度鉴定|publisher= [[中国政府网]]|date=July 10, 2007|accessdate=July 11|accessyear=2008}}</ref>
{{Portal|Spaceflight|China}}
{{Commons category|Shenzhou-7}}
* [[Chinese space program]]
* [[Tiangong program]]
* [[Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center]]
* [[Long March 2F|Long March 2F Rocket]]
* [[Voskhod 2]], first spacewalk mission, first Soviet spacewalk, first spacewalk from a 2-man crew mission
* [[Gemini 4]], first US spacewalk mission, second spacewalk mission, second spacewalk from a 2-man crew mission
* [[Voskhod 1]], first 3-man crew mission
* [[Soyuz 5]], first 3-man crew mission with EVA
{{Clear}}


==See also==
== References ==
{{Reflist|2}}
* [[Space program of China]]


== External links ==
==References==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090203060101/http://www.nationalspacesymposium.org/symposium-awards Space Achievement Award]
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
*[http://scitech.people.com.cn/GB/25509/55912/115314/index.html "“神舟七号”计划2008年10月升空将首次太空行走"]. —[[人民网]] “神七”专题. Accessed [[9 May]] [[2008]]


{{Shenzhou program|before=[[Shenzhou 6]]|after=[[Shenzhou 8]]}}
{{Shenzhou program|before=[[Shenzhou 6]]|after=[[Shenzhou 8]]}}
{{Chinese space program}}
{{Chinese space program}}
{{Orbital launches in 2008}}


[[Category:Shenzhou 7| ]]
[[Category:Human spaceflights|Shenzhou 07]]
[[Category:Human spaceflights|Shenzhou 07]]
[[Category:2008 in space exploration]]
[[Category:Spacecraft launched in 2008]]
[[Category:Shenzhou programme|Shenzhou 07]]
[[Category:Shenzhou program|Shenzhou 07]]
[[Category:Extravehicular activity]]
[[Category:2008 in China]]
[[Category:2008 in China]]
[[Category:Spacecraft which reentered in 2008]]

[[de:Shenzhou 7]]
[[he:שנג'ואו 7]]
[[hu:Sencsou-7]]
[[pl:Shenzhou 7]]
[[ru:Шэньчжоу-7]]
[[zh:神舟七号]]

Latest revision as of 21:06, 15 August 2023

Shenzhou 7
Shenzhou 7 spacecraft model
COSPAR ID2008-047A Edit this at Wikidata
SATCAT no.33386
Mission duration2 days, 20 hours, 27 minutes
Spacecraft properties
Spacecraft typeShenzhou
Crew
Crew size3
MembersZhai Zhigang
Liu Boming
Jing Haipeng
EVAs1
EVA duration22 minutes
Start of mission
Launch date25 September 2008, 13:10:04.988 (2008-09-25UTC13:10:04Z) UTC[1]
RocketLong March 2F
Launch siteJiuquan LA-4/SLS-1
End of mission
Landing date28 September 2008, 09:37 (2008-09-28UTC09:38Z) UTC[2]
Landing siteSiziwang Banner
Central Inner Mongolia[vague]
Orbital parameters
Reference systemGeocentric
RegimeLow Earth

Zhai, Liu and Jing
Shenzhou missions
 

Shenzhou 7 (simplified Chinese: 神舟七号; traditional Chinese: 神舟七號; pinyin: Shénzhōu Qī Hào) was the third human spaceflight mission of the Chinese space program. The mission, which included the first Chinese extra-vehicular activity (EVA) carried out by crew members Zhai Zhigang and Liu Boming, marked the commencement of the second phase of the Chinese government's Project 921.

The Shenzhou spacecraft carrying the three crew members was launched 25 September 2008, by a Long March 2F (CZ-2F) rocket which lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center at 21:10 CST.[1][3] The mission lasted three days, after which the craft landed safely in Siziwang Banner in central Inner Mongolia on 28 September 2008, at 17:37 CST.[2][4] The Shenzhou 7 EVA made the Chinese space program the third to have conducted an EVA. EVAs had previously been conducted by the space programs of the Soviet Union (later Russia) and the United States.

Crew[edit]

The crew for Shenzhou 7 was announced on 17 September 2008.[5]

Position Crew Member
Commander Zhai Zhigang China
First spaceflight
Orbital module astronaut[6] Liu Boming China
First spaceflight
Descent module monitor astronaut[6] Jing Haipeng China
First spaceflight

Backup crew[edit]

Position Crew Member
Commander Chen Quan (陈全)
Orbital module astronaut[6] Fei Junlong (费俊龙)
Descent module monitor astronaut[6] Nie Haisheng (聂海胜)

Of the back-up crew, only Chen Quan had not previously flown in space.

Mission highlights[edit]

Shenzhou 7 was the first Chinese space mission to carry a three-person crew for several days and conduct a full operation. A total of six astronauts were trained, three to conduct the mission and three others to serve as a backup crew.

The Long March 2F rocket launched the Shenzhou 7 into an initial elliptical orbit of 200 x 330 kilometres inclined at 42.4 degrees on 25 September 2008. About seven hours later the spacecraft raised its orbit to a more circular orbit of 330 x 336 km.[1] After three days in space, deorbit manoeuvres began on 28 September at 08:48, and the return module landed at 09:37 UTC at coordinates 42°16′41″N 111°21′18″E / 42.278°N 111.355°E / 42.278; 111.355.[7]

China has been congratulated by a number of foreign leaders for the successful completion of the mission,[8] which marked a number of developments for China's space program, including several first-time achievements.

The Shenzhou 7 Mission won the 2009 Space Achievement Award[9] from the Space Foundation.

Spacewalk[edit]

Space capsule of Shenzhou 7 at a 'homecoming' exhibition in Hong Kong

On 27 September, Zhai Zhigang, wearing a Chinese-developed Feitian space suit, conducted a 22-minute space walk, the first ever for a Chinese astronaut.[10][11] Zhai slipped out of the orbital module in a head-first position at around 16:43 (0843 GMT) and wandered around the orbital module, retrieved experiment samples and waved the Chinese flag in space. The spacewalk lasted about 20 minutes, with Zhai returning to the orbital module at 17:00.[12] The first space walk was limited in scope: cables were used to tie Zhai to the handrail outside the orbital module, and his moving route was restricted to areas near the exits. Liu Boming, wearing a Russian Orlan-M suit, stayed in the airlock in the orbital module to provide help if necessary. Liu also conducted an EVA, standing up at 08:58 UTC to hand Zhai a flag.[10] The third astronaut, Jing Haipeng remained in the re-entry module to monitor the general situation of the spacecraft.[13] By 09:00 UTC both astronauts were back inside and the hatch was closed.[10] The space walk was broadcast live on Chinese media, and two cameras provided panoramic images.[14]

The Feitian spacesuit is similar to the Orlan-M (known as Haiying, 海鹰, in Chinese) in shape and volume and are designed for spacewalks of up to seven hours,[15] providing oxygen and allowing for the excretion of bodily waste.[15] According to Chinese media reports, spacesuit materials with such features as fire and radiation resistance were developed by several civilian corporations and national institutes.[16][17] Each suit was reported to have cost 30 million RMB (about US$4.4 million).[18][19] Except for the gloves of the Feitian suit, the space suits were not brought back to Earth.[20][21]

A fire alarm was reported to the control center at the beginning of the EVA, but it was confirmed to be a false alarm.[22][23]

Solid lubricant experiment[edit]

Scientists conducted a solid lubricant exposure experiment during the mission. A piece of equipment the size of a book was installed on the outside wall of the orbital module, and was later retrieved during the space walk, after having been exposed in space for more than 40 hours. The experiment was aimed to study a lubricant which will be used for space-based moving components in future space facilities.[24]

Release of miniaturized satellite[edit]

Main article: BanXing

A miniaturized satellite was released during the mission on 27 September at 19:24, after Zhai returned to the spacecraft. The satellite was a cube about 40 cm (16 in) long, with a mass of 40 kilograms (88 lb); it carried boost devices and two 150-megapixel stereo cameras.[25] The satellite's tasks included testing the mini-satellite technology, observing and monitoring the spacecraft, and testing the tracking and approaching technology used for space rendezvous and docking.[26]

The miniaturized satellite took photos and videos near the spacecraft, then maneuvered to about 100 to 200 kilometres (62 to 124 mi) away from the spacecraft. After the return module separated from the spacecraft and re-entered the atmosphere, the satellite caught up to the orbiting spacecraft using a liquid ammonia engine, then continue to orbit around the spacecraft. The mini-satellite will work for about three months.[27][needs update]

Data relay satellite[edit]

China launched its first data relay satellite, called Tianlian I (天链一号), from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center on a Long March-3C carrier rocket on 25 April 2008.[28] The Tianlian I satellite will be used to speed up communication between the Shenzhou 7 spacecraft and the ground stations, and to increase the amount of data that can be transferred to the ground. The Tianlian I satellite alone can cover 50 percent of the orbit of Shenzhou 7—whereas the Yuanwang space tracking ships, along with China's ten ground observation stations, have a coverage of only 12 percent—and thus will increase the total coverage to about 62 percent of the mission.[24]

Mission support and preparation[edit]

Subsystems[edit]

The Shenzhou 7 project consists of seven subsystems, with the Chinese military responsible for launching, recovering, crew, and tracking subsystems, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation responsible for the carrier rocket and spacecraft itself, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences responsible for the payloads on board the spacecraft (other than the crew).[citation needed]

Water training pool[edit]

A columniform water training pool of 23 metres (75 ft) in diameter and 10 metres (33 ft) in depth, located in China Astronaut Training Center, simulates the weightlessness experienced in space. A model of the Shenzhou orbital module has been used in the pool to train the crew for the space walk.[29]

Modifications to the CZ-2F carrier rocket[edit]

Special attention has been paid to solving vibration problems that were encountered 120 seconds into the Shenzhou 5 mission. These vibrations were described by Shenzhou 5 astronaut Yang Liwei as hard to endure.[citation needed] Corrective measures were implemented for the Shenzhou 6 mission,[citation needed] but since then more improvements have been added to the carrier rocket, to the pipes of the second stage, and to more than thirty other parts of the spacecraft..[citation needed]

Modifications to the spacecraft[edit]

The Orbital module has been modified and its solar panels removed in order to allow for the EVA experiment. For this same reason, in contrast to previous Shenzhou missions, it will not remain in space after its separation with the departing crew in the Return module.[30] Handrails have been added to the external wall of the Orbital module to allow the space walking astronaut to reach specific experiment areas.[31]

More cameras have been installed on this spacecraft than on the Shenzhou 6 vessel, in addition to those covering the Orbital module and the Return module.[19]

New space tracking ships[edit]

Two new, recently commissioned Yuanwang-class tracking ships, Yuanwang-5 and Yuanwang-6, played a key role in the Shenzhou VII mission.[32]

Toilets[edit]

Custom-made, compact, foldable toilets allow the astronaut's collected urine to be scientifically inspected.[33]

Project management[edit]

Most of the Shenzhou 6 project management team has stayed for the Shenzhou 7 mission. Changes in personnel include:

Controversy[edit]

According to the United States Strategic Command, at 15:07 Greenwich Mean Time on 27 September 2008, the Shenzhou 7 ship passed within 45 kilometers of the International Space Station. There is no international laws defining distance of passage of outer space objects. China did not respond to queries about why it allowed its ship to pass so close to the space station. Richard Fisher, a senior fellow at the International Assessment and Strategy Center, in an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal noted that the Shenzhou 7 had launched its companion satellite BX-1 four hours earlier. The IASC is a "think-tank" focused on medium and long-term security issues and their impact on the security of the United States and her key allies. He noted "China's track record of using all of its Shenzhou missions since 1999 for dual military-civil missions," and speculated that China may have used the opportunity to pass near the space station to test "co-orbital" antisatellite interception technology.[34]

See also[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Shenzhou-7.

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c McDowell, Jonathan (26 September 2008). "Jonathan's Space Report, Number 600". Jonathan's Space Report. Archived from the original on 27 July 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  2. ^ a b "Chinese taikonauts return as heroes after landmark spacewalk". Window of China. China View. 28 September 2008. Archived from the original on 1 October 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  3. ^ "China manned mission to follow Olympics". 20 November 2006. Retrieved 20 November 2007. [dead link]
  4. ^ ""神七""神九"将太空对接 "神七"准备工作顺利 (Shenzhou 7 and Shenzhou 9 to perform space rendezvous; Shenzhou 7 preparations for work going smoothly)" (in Chinese). Longhu News Center. 4 March 2008. Archived from the original on 13 February 2009. Retrieved 1 May 2008.
  5. ^ "China names first "spacewalker" astronaut". Window of China. China View. 17 September 2008. Archived from the original on September 18, 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  6. ^ a b c d "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2009-08-26. Retrieved 2009-07-16.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  7. ^ McDowell, Jonathan (29 September 2008). "JSR No. 601 draft". Jonathan's Space Report. Retrieved 29 September 2008.
  8. ^ "Foreign leaders congratulate China on successful space mission". Xinhua. 28 September 2008. Archived from the original on 29 September 2008. Retrieved 29 September 2008.
  9. ^ "Symposium Awards | National Space Symposium". Archived from the original on 2009-02-03. Retrieved 2012-01-31.
  10. ^ a b c McDowell, Jonathan (2008-10-12). "JSR No. 601". Jonathan's Space Report. Archived from the original on 2012-02-12. Retrieved 2012-07-08.
  11. ^ "Taikonaut Zhai's small step historical leap for China". Xinhua. 27 September 2008. Archived from the original on 1 October 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  12. ^ "Chinese taikonaut greets nation, world in first spacewalk". Xinhua. 27 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  13. ^ "神七日志：第三天 (Shenzhou 7 log: Day 3)" (in Chinese). Xinhua. 28 September 2008. Archived from the original on 30 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  14. ^ 神七舱外新装2台摄像机拍摄航天员太空行走 (in Chinese). Xinhua. 25 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  15. ^ a b "China's astronaut outfitters design material for spacewalk suits". Xinhua. 1 June 2007. Archived from the original on 25 January 2008. Retrieved 2 December 2007.
  16. ^ 神七出舱服装特种外层防护材料上海制造 (in Chinese). 中国服装款式网. 2006-07-03. Archived from the original on 2016-01-09. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  17. ^ "神七"宇航服还是成都造 (in Chinese). 中国服装款式网. 20 July 2006. Archived from the original on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  18. ^ "Chinese astronaut walks in space". BBC News. 27 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  19. ^ a b "神七"太空服每件造价1.6亿 将实现太空行走 (in Chinese). Xinhua. 21 September 2006. Archived from the original on 10 October 2008. Retrieved 13 July 2008.
  20. ^ "China's indigenous Feitian space suit". China.org. 25 September 2008. Retrieved 29 September 2008.
  21. ^ "神七载人飞船返回舱搭载物亮相". Sina.com. 1 October 2008. Retrieved 1 October 2008. [dead link]
  22. ^ "王兆耀解释为何打开舱门相当周折：不可能着火 (Wang Zhaoyao explains why opening the cabin doors is safe: It cannot catch fire)" (in Chinese). Xinhua. 27 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  23. ^ "Spokesman says fire alarm in Shenzhou-7 false, no fire breaks out". Xinhua. 27 September 2008. Archived from the original on 13 February 2009. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  24. ^ a b "Chief designer says Shenzhou-7 has four tasks". Xinhua. 26 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  25. ^ "伴飞小卫星将给神七"照相"(Banfei miniature satellite to "take pictures" of Shenzhou 7)" (in Chinese). Xinhua. 24 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  26. ^ "Shenzhou-7 launches small monitoring satellite". Xinhua. 27 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  27. ^ "伴飞小卫星将"追赶"分离后的神七轨道舱 (Banfei miniature satellite to "chase" Shenzhou 7 orbital module after separation)" (in Chinese). Xinhua. 24 September 2008. Archived from the original on 27 September 2008. Retrieved 24 September 2008.
  28. ^ "China blasts off first data relay satellite". Xinhua. 26 April 2008. Archived from the original on April 29, 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  29. ^ "10米水下"太空漫步" (A "space stroll" under 10 meters of water)" (in Chinese). Sohu.com. 25 September 2008. Retrieved 28 September 2008.
  30. ^ "神八2010年首飞 运载火箭将有重大变化 (Delivery rockets for 2010 maiden flight of Shenzhou 8 to undergo major changes)" (in Chinese). Phoenix TV. 26 June 2008. Retrieved 8 July 2008.
  31. ^ 神七准备中俄产两套航天服 出舱将穿国产服 (in Chinese). People's Daily. 23 July 2008. Archived from the original on 1 October 2008. Retrieved 23 July 2008.
  32. ^ 我国新一代航天远洋测量船完成海上设备精度鉴定 (in Chinese). China Government online. 10 July 2007. Archived from the original on 10 June 2016. Retrieved 11 July 2008.
  33. ^ "神七厕所南京制造 (Nanjing manufactures Shenzhou 7 toilets)" (in Chinese). Xinhua. 3 September 2008. Archived from the original on February 14, 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2008.
  34. ^ Fisher, Richard D., Jr., "China's Close Call Archived 2013-06-19 at the Wayback Machine", The Wall Street Journal Asia, 31 October 2008, p. 15.

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Shenzhou_7&oldid=1170569102"