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Historic Spacewalk Achieves Multiple Milestones
On August 15, 2025, Chinese astronauts Chen Dong and Wang Jie successfully completed a groundbreaking 6.5-hour spacewalk outside the Tiangong space station, setting new records for China's space program. Commander Chen Dong, leading the Shenzhou-20 mission, now holds the record for the most spacewalks by a Chinese astronaut.
Advanced Technology Deployment
The spacewalk, which began at 16:00 Beijing time, featured the debut of an innovative automated foot restraint system mounted on the station's robotic arm. This new technology significantly enhanced operational efficiency during extravehicular activities (EVAs). "This was the first time we utilized this system for actual mission tasks, and it clearly improved our operational efficiency," stated engineer Liang Xiaofeng from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
Critical Mission Objectives
During the EVA, the astronauts installed crucial space debris protection components and additional structural elements essential for long-term protection against micrometeoroids and orbital debris. The team also collected valuable thermal data using advanced optical and infrared cameras, providing critical information for future spacecraft design and thermal control technologies.
Three-Person Coordination
While Chen Dong and Wang Jie worked outside the station, the third crew member, Chen Zhongrui, provided support from inside the Tianhe core module. This coordinated effort demonstrates China's growing expertise in complex orbital operations and space station management.
Scientific Significance and Future Implications
The thermal data collected during this mission is particularly valuable for understanding operational conditions in space and will inform the design of future spacecraft. The successful installation of debris protection systems underscores the importance of safeguarding space infrastructure as human presence in orbit continues to expand.
Record-Breaking Achievement
This spacewalk marks the third successful EVA for the Shenzhou-20 crew, who have been aboard Tiangong since April 2025 for their six-month mission. The achievement highlights China's rapid advancement in space technology and its commitment to establishing a permanent human presence in low Earth orbit.
Both astronauts safely returned to the Tianhe module at 22:47 Beijing time, completing another successful chapter in China's ambitious space program. The Tiangong space station, with its 340 cubic meters of pressurized volume, continues to serve as a platform for scientific research and technological innovation, positioning China as a major player in the new era of space exploration.
