News Brief
China Unveils Advanced Space Telescope 'Xuntian' As Next Space Station Crew Prepares For Launch
![An art conception image of the Chinese Space Station Telescope slated to be launched at the end of 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]](https://swarajya.gumlet.io/swarajya/2023-10/58c390f5-945f-4899-9bc3-46f70a54ba0e/62ddd8d3a310fd2bec9826a5.jpg)
An art conception image of the Chinese Space Station Telescope slated to be launched at the end of 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]
China has unveiled its plans to deploy a state-of-the-art telescope designed to explore the mysteries of the universe. The announcement aligns with the imminent launch of a three-member crew for China's orbiting space station.
China's Tiangong space station is set to be equipped with the Xuntian telescope, which will co-orbit with the station, as revealed by Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson and deputy director-general of the Chinese Manned Space Agency.
The specific timeline for installing the telescope has not been disclosed, but it will serve the purpose of sky surveys and mapping, according to state broadcaster CCTV, as reported by Hindustan Times.
In recent years, China has been actively pursuing a prominent role in space exploration and scientific advancements, aiming to establish itself as a leading force in these fields.
In preparation for an upcoming space mission, China announced the replacement of the current space station crew, who have spent six months in orbit.
The three astronauts set to embark on this mission are Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie, and Jiang Xinlin.
The country is also actively pursuing various space-related initiatives, competing primarily with the United States while seeking support from countries in Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, and other regions.
In response to being denied participation in the International Space Station, China constructed its own space station.
Both the United States and China have sent rovers to Mars, with China also planning a spacecraft landing on an asteroid, following the US lead.
The incoming crew of the Chinese space station will be tasked with repairing solar panels damaged by space debris, as reported by the Xinhua News Agency.
In 2007, China destroyed one of its own satellites using a missile, generating a significant amount of space debris.
This action was seen as a demonstration of strength and influence, particularly towards competitors like the United States and its allies.
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