China successfully conducted an escape flight test on its new-generation manned spacecraft Mengzhou at zero altitude on Tuesday, taking an important step forward in its manned lunar exploration program.
The test was carried out at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 12:30 Beijing time (0430 GMT). The spacecraft's escape engine ignited successfully, propelling the capsule-tower assembly upward. About 20 seconds later, the return capsule separated from the escape tower at the predetermined altitude. Two minutes later, the capsule landed safely in the designated area using an airbag cushioning system.
The flight test marked a major milestone in the development of China's crewed lunar mission. It was the country's first zero-altitude escape test for a manned spacecraft in 27 years, following a similar test for the Shenzhou spacecraft in 1998.
China's new-generation manned spacecraft completes zero-altitude escape flight test
Chinese communities across Canada held memorials on Friday for the victims of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre, marking China's national memorial day and calling for vigilance against the resurgence of militarism.
The ceremonies coincided with the 12th National Memorial Day in China, which commemorates the 300,000 victims killed by Japanese troops during the 1937 Nanjing Massacre. This year's memorial holds special significance as it also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
At 18:00 local time (10:00 Beijing time) on Friday, attendees across Canada observed a moment of silence to honor the massacre victims and fallen heroes of Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Speakers paid tribute to the victims, denounced provocative remarks by some Japanese politicians regarding China's Taiwan region, and voiced firm opposition to foreign interference in China's internal affairs.
"Some people are trying to revive militarism. They claim that a crisis in the Taiwan Strait would be their business too. I believe this is just the prelude to reviving military aggression. Chinese people at home and abroad must remain on high alert and resolutely fight back against any such rhetoric," said Ma Zaixin, advisor to the Canadian Alliance of Chinese Associations.
As part of the memorial events, attendees also visited a themed photo exhibition titled "Remember History, Cherish Peace," which featured historical images.
"Seeing these photos just now was truly heartbreaking. Our compatriots gave their lives, and yet justice has still not been served for them," said Teresa Wat, member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Canada.
Canadians honor Nanjing Massacre victims, condemn rising militarism
