China successfully sent a new crew of three astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-18 spaceship into orbit on Thursday night.
China Media Group released footage showing multiple angles of the moment the spaceship lifted off.
The spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, blasted off at 20:59 (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.
About 10 minutes after the launch, the spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. The crew members are in good shape and the launch is a "complete success," the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced.
About 6.5 hours after liftoff, the spaceship made a fast automated rendezvous and docked with China's Tiangong space station combination at 03:32 Friday (Beijing Time).
The Shenzhou-18 is crewed by mission commander Ye Guangfu, and astronauts Li Cong and Li Guangsu.
They will take over command of the Tiangong space station after completing an in-orbit handover with colleagues from the Shenzhou-17 mission, who are scheduled to return to earth on April 30.
During their six-month mission in orbit, the trio aboard the space station will be visited by the Tianzhou-8 cargo craft and will later welcome the Shenzhou-19 crew who will replace them on board.
Footage shows liftoff of Shenzhou-18 spaceship from multiple angles
Footage shows liftoff of Shenzhou-18 spaceship from multiple angles
Guangzhou, the capital of south China's Guangdong Province, has rolled out exclusive travel benefits and a range of exciting attractions to ensure an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the globe during the Canton Fair.
The 135th session of the Canton Fair runs from April 15 to May 5 in three five-day installments. Launched in 1957 and held twice a year, the Canton Fair is considered a major gauge of China's foreign trade.
To cater to the diverse leisure needs of international attendees and foreign tourists, Guangzhou has introduced 40 new one-day tour routes that highlight the city's countryside, cultural heritage, gastronomic delights, and wellness retreats. These specially curated itineraries promise to meet the leisure and exploration demands of visitors attending the renowned Canton Fair.
In addition to these immersive tours, Guangzhou's renowned tourist attractions, hotels and travel agencies have unveiled a host of bespoke products and special offers.
Exhibiting the city's commitment to hospitality, attractions such as the iconic Guangzhou Tower provide discounted tickets exclusively for visitors to the Canton Fair, ensuring they can enjoy the city's renowned landmarks at a reduced cost.
The city has also undergone a payment convenience upgrade, simplifying transactions at key cultural and tourist sites, museums, cultural and commercial complexes.
Guangzhou welcomes global visitors with special travel offers during Canton Fair
