As one of the world's most powerful cargo spaceships, the Tianzhou has been further modified for the successful Tianzhou-8 mission, according to staff with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
According to the China Manned Space Agency, the Long March-7 Y9 rocket carrying the Tianzhou-8 spacecraft blasted off at 23:13 Beijing Time (1513 GMT) on Friday from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan.
At 02:32 Beijing Time (1832 GMT) on Saturday, the Tianzhou-8 cargo craft successfully docked at the rear docking port of the Tianhe core module.
Compared to its predecessors Tianzhou-6 and Tianzhou-7, the Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft boasts a larger cargo capacity -- an increase of more than 200 liters of space and more than 100 kilograms of cargo load.
"First, the pre-launch loading capacity is improved to cater to the astronauts' in-orbit needs for fresh fruits, as well as the scientific experiment payload," said Dang Rong, researcher from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
Weighing about six tons, the cargo includes supplies for astronauts, propellant, application experiments and test equipment in addition to over 400 kilograms of scientific application supplies.
"From an application standpoint, the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft is an essential component of the space station currently in orbit and an integral part of its overall functionality. With its powerful capabilities, the spacecraft not only delivers cargo but also provides propellant refueling and comprehensive attitude and orbit control services for the space station," said Feng Yong from China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.
Tianzhou-8 cargo spaceship further modified for successful mission
Tianzhou-8 cargo spaceship further modified for successful mission
Chinese businesses are exploring new opportunities for inclusive growth in emerging markets like Latin America, as global business leaders gathered in Peru for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit this week.
This year's APEC CEO Summit took place in Lima from Wednesday to Friday, bringing together over 1,000 chief executives, thought leaders, and government representatives to share insights and exchange views on the region's economic development under the theme "People, Business, Prosperity."
Wang Yangbin, chairman of Vobile Group, a global leader in digital content protection, launched a startup in Silicon Valley and has since established a strong foothold in the U.S. market. Now, despite rising protectionism in the world, he is advocating for the expansion of Chinese media industry into new markets to achieve inclusive growth and unlock more potential.
"China is at the forefront of many technological fields globally. As for inclusive growth, in a global media landscape, I believe Chinese media deserves greater inclusiveness, broader market access, and more value in the world," said Wang, in an interview during the summit.
Wang also sees potential for intellectual property protection businesses in Latin America, as the Chinese media industry continues to expand and grow in the region.
"Intellectual property protection is a globally recognized principle, with the industry valued at nearly 3 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide, (partly driven) by the huge media industry. Chinese companies in this field are actually developing well in Latin America and countries along the Belt and Road Initiative," he said.
Ten years ago, Chinese Presdient Xi Jinping first proposed the vision of building a China-Latin America community with a shared future, charting the course for the development of China-Latin America relations in the new era.
The vision has pointed the way forward for deepening ties between China and the region. Reflecting on his business growth overseas, Wang shared his thoughts on the importance of openness, inclusiveness, and mutual interest in following such a vision.
"Sometimes, it's important for our company to align with the bigger picture. Every industry has its own path, but I believe the path we're on is mainly tied to the peaceful rise of the Chinese nation. As China rises, we have the opportunity to trade with many countries for mutual benefit. As a beneficiary of China's reform and opening-up, I’m confident in opening our business to the world. There are people who share our vision and are willing to grow with us, benefiting together," said Wang.
Chinese entrepreneur eyes inclusive growth in Latin America