Jiuquan launch center well-prepared to cope with sandstorms

The Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center is fully prepared for sandstorms and has intensified meteorological monitoring measures for the upcoming launch of the Shenzhou-20 manned space mission.

At the launch center, engineers are conducting detailed inspections of the enclosed areas of the launch tower and the sand-proof sealing of ground equipment, in order to prevent outdoor facilities, such as the air conditioning system, non-standard tower equipment, and power supply and distribution systems, from being eroded by strong winds and dust storms.

"We have taken protective measures for key parts of the launch tower, particularly the enclosed area of the spacecraft spanning from the 7th to the 9th floors. All holes and crevices have been sealed. We have also protected large mechanical components, bearings and cables on the tower. We have arranged for personnel to stand guard 24 hours a day, closely monitoring the temperature, humidity and cleanliness of the fairing air conditioning. Additionally, based on the previous equipment operation assessment, we have conducted emergency response drills for all typical faults. Currently, the launch site system has sufficient materials and equipment, and the contingency plans have been well rehearsed. We are confident in completing the launch of Shenzhou-20," said Wang Zuobing, an engineer at the launch center.

The ground-based tracking and control systems have also been put under protective enclosures to ensure their smooth operation under challenging conditions.

"After entering the task cycle, we have conducted a daily review of the equipment status. Based on the meteorological conditions, we have formulated four special emergency plans and established a daily inspection system for key components, such as the external interfaces and imaging modules of the equipment. Currently, the equipment is in good condition," explained He Yongfu, another engineer.

In addition, meteorological workers at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center are intensifying their monitoring and forecasting efforts by systematically collecting meteorological data from the launch site for the month of April over the past decade and establishing a refined forecasting model.

"We have intensified pre-launch consultations and forecasts. During this phrase, we will generate hourly forecasts for the next 72 hours, which can more intuitively and accurately reflect future weather conditions. This is also beneficial for decision-making authorities to learn about related window forecasts, so as to provide auxiliary support for their decision-making," said Zhang Fang, a meteorological worker at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.

Jiuquan launch center well-prepared to cope with sandstorms

The Iranian government is focusing on public concerns and maintaining stable supplies of essential goods amid recent protests, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said in a televised interview on Sunday.

In the city of Karaj, northwest of the capital Tehran, daily life has largely continued as normal. A video filmed by a local resident on Sunday shows food stores open and grocery shelves fully stocked.

"This is the block near my home, and there are some food stores here. Daily life continues here. Last night we did not see many protests in Karaj. Right now the city is very safe. This is a grocery store close to my home. All the food is available; nothing is in shortage. Here are noodles and different types of beans. Here are dairy products, cheese, and yogurt. I also checked other grocery stores and didn't see any shortages. Everything is available," said local resident Ali Reza.

Iranian officials have described recent disturbances as acts orchestrated by the "enemy," including some carried out by well-trained and armed "terrorists." The incidents have caused casualties among security personnel and civilians, as well as property damage.

The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani has directed authorities to severely punish the "terrorists."

Meanwhile, Iran's police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan said on Sunday that the police had raised alert levels and arrested several leaders of the troublemakers during the operations on Saturday.

President Pezeshkian noted in the interview that the normal demands of the Iranian people are reasonable and justified, but they must realize that triggering riots and carrying out terrorist acts are the enemy's attempts to undermine the country. He urged the public to remain vigilant.

Also on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that Tehran would regard U.S. and Israeli bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" if Washington takes military action against Iran. His remarks followed media reports saying U.S. President Donald Trump is "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran.

Iranian state media reported that at least 109 members of Iran's security forces have been killed in clashes since the protests began 14 days ago. Meanwhile, human rights groups based outside the country said the number of protesters killed has exceeded 200, though the figure could not be independently verified.

The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and sanctions imposed by the United States.

Iranian president says government focusing on ensuring supplies amid protests