China’s Shenzhou-18 crew bid farewell to the Tiangong Space Station on Sunday, marking the start of their journey back to Earth after completing a six-month mission. The spacecraft autonomously undocked at 16:12 Beijing time, with astronauts Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu preparing for their fiery reentry.
Before departure, the trio wrapped up tasks like data transfers and supply management, then seamlessly handed over responsibilities to the newly arrived Shenzhou-19 crew—Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze—who’ll continue scientific experiments for another half-year. Talk about a smooth baton pass!
The return trip isn’t just a quick Uber ride: Shenzhou-18 will orbit Earth five times before initiating its ‘rapid return mode’—a high-speed landing sequence pioneered in 2021. The spacecraft will brake, glide, and parachute its way through a 50-minute celestial touchdown sequence. Think of it as the ultimate rollercoaster, but with G-force-resistant heroes.
All systems are go, with the China Manned Space Agency confirming the crew’s health and smooth operations. Stay tuned for touchdown updates—this is how you level up in space exploration!
