Chinese astronauts successfully expanded the debris shielding of the Tiangong space station during a recent spacewalk that lasted 6.5 hours. The operation, performed on August 15, 2025, involved two astronauts from the Shenzhou 20 mission. The spacewalk concluded at 9:27 a.m. EDT (14:47 UTC, or 10:47 p.m. in Beijing) and marked the second time the crew has worked on enhancing the space station’s debris protection, with similar efforts conducted on May 22.
During the extravehicular activity, astronauts Chen Dong and Wang Jie not only added debris protection devices but also conducted inspections and maintenance of equipment on the exterior of Tiangong. The operations were overseen by their colleague, Chen Zhongrui, who remained inside the station, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
Significant Milestones for Chinese Space Operations
Chen Dong, the mission commander, has now completed six spacewalks, the highest number by any Chinese astronaut, according to CMSA officials. The Shenzhou 20 crew is currently more than halfway through their anticipated six-month stay in orbit, having launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on April 24.
The astronauts are engaged in a variety of research projects that span life sciences, microgravity physics, space material science, space medicine, and aerospace technology. Prior to the spacewalk, the CMSA confirmed that the space station is operating stably and that all three crew members are in good health.
Friday’s spacewalk was the third of its kind for the Shenzhou 20 crew. The mission has already seen the departure of one cargo spacecraft, Tianzhou 8, and the arrival of another, Tianzhou 9.
Tiangong’s Ongoing Development
The Shenzhou 20 mission is the ninth crewed operation to visit the Tiangong space station, which is approximately 20% the mass of the International Space Station and features a T-shaped design. The assembly of Tiangong was completed in October 2022, but future missions may include the addition of more modules to enhance its capabilities.
As the mission progresses, astronaut Chen Dong continues to lead efforts that not only extend the operational life of Tiangong but also contribute to China’s growing presence in space exploration. This mission showcases China’s commitment to advancing its technology and capabilities in orbit, as the country aims to solidify its position in the international space community.
