All systems aboard the Shenzhou-20 manned spacecraft, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, are fully prepared, with all personnel in position for the scheduled launch on Thursday afternoon.
The Shenzhou-20 crewed spaceship is scheduled to be launched at 17:17 Thursday (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) said on Wednesday.
The spaceship will carry three astronauts, Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie, who will conduct the Shenzhou-20 spaceflight mission, with Chen Dong serving as the commander.
The rocket's propellant filling was completed on Wednesday afternoon.
At 10:17 on Thursday, the rocket was powered up, and engineers conducted inspections of various functions.
At 13:47, the spacecraft was powered up.
At around 14:00, the three astronauts departed for the launch site.
Shenzhou-20 is the 35th flight mission of China's manned space program, and the fifth crewed mission during the application and development stage of China's space station.
Shenzhou-20 crewed spaceship all set for liftoff
The Chinese original dance drama "Wing Chun" recently concluded its successful six-show run in Russia, showcasing the charm of Chinese art and further promoting cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Inspired by the concept-driven southern Chinese Kung Fu style of the same name, the dance drama seamlessly blends martial arts, contemporary dance, and striking stage design, highlighting the depth and beauty of Chinese cultural heritage.
The performance at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg captivated the audience with its innovative fusion of dance and martial arts. As the curtain fell, the theater echoed with sustained applause.
"I have been deeply moved by this performance, and it's hard for me to express all my feelings right now. This is a dance drama rich in culture and history," said Anna Vladimirovna, a renowned Russian theater critic.
"I love the music, the actors, and their performances. I like martial arts. I truly enjoyed watching the unique and beautiful martial arts skills displayed in the dance drama," said Sasha, an audience member.
From April 25 to May 1, "Wing Chun" was performed in two of Russia's most prestigious venues: the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow and the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, with a total of six shows.
"There has been a profound interest in Chinese culture across Russian society. Performances like 'Wing Chun' are a perfect example of this cultural fascination," said Alexey Rodionov, associate director of the Faculty of Oriental Studies at St. Petersburg University.
Since its debut in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, the dance drama has been staged in 49 cities worldwide, garnering widespread acclaim for its artistic innovation and cultural resonance.
Chinese original dance drama "Wing Chun" completes successful Russia tour
