China:  Third Spacecraft Launches Into Orbit

China yesterday successfully launched its third unmanned spacecraft into orbit, according to the state-run China Daily newspaper (see GSN, March 19).

The Long March II F booster rocket, launched at the Jiuquan launch center, carried the Shenzhou III spacecraft into orbit.  The spacecraft consists of an orbital module, reentry module, propulsion section and access section, China Daily reported.  The craft will continue in orbit for several months after it separates from the reentry module, according to China Daily.

Chinese President Jiang Zemin, who attended the launch, said the booster rocket and spacecraft represent China’s scientific and technological achievements.  The successful launch illustrates China’s spirit of continually striving to be stronger, Jiang said.

Officials have planned scientific and technological experiments for the mission, China Daily reported.  China has conducted two previous successful launches, one 14 months ago and one in 1999 (Zhao Huanxin, China Daily, March 26).

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