Moment of truth

At 12:11 pm (Beijing time) on Nov 25, a Long March 2F Y22 rocket blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Northwest China. It carried the Shenzhou XXII spacecraft, embarking on a mission that marked a significant milestone in China's manned spaceflight program. Some 10 minutes after launch, the spacecraft successfully separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit, marking the triumphant completion of China's first emergency launch mission.

The need for this unprecedented mission arose on Nov 5, when the Shenzhou XX spacecraft encountered an unexpected delay in its return. It was suspected to have been struck by a small piece of space debris and was deemed unfit to fly after tiny cracks were discovered on the viewport window of its return capsule.

In response, the mission command center swiftly activated its contingency plans. Engineers and scientists across the program worked seamlessly together, demonstrating remarkable composure and scientific acumen. Within a span of just 20 days, they conducted a thorough risk analysis and evaluation, deliberated on and decided upon the best course of action, coordinated the movement of personnel and materials, and facilitated the crew's transfer to a new spacecraft for their return.