This is a video captured from a live Chinese television broadcast of the complete launch of the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft on the afternoon of June 16, 2012. The video begins a few seconds before ignition and continues through entry into the assigned orbit and the opening of the spacecraft’s solar panels.

A detailed history of China’s space station plans is available here.

Posted in: Space and Satellites Tags: China, satellites, Shenzhou, space

About the author: Gregory has lived and worked in China for the better part of the last twenty-five years facilitating exchanges between academic, governmental, and professional organizations in both countries. Since joining the Union of Concerned Scientists in 2002, he has focused on promoting and conducting dialog between Chinese and American experts on nuclear arms control and space security. Areas of expertise: Chinese foreign and security policy, Chinese space program, international arms control, cross-cultural communication

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