China's Shenzhou-17 manned spacecraft has successfully docked with the Tiangong space station. It launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China's Gansu Province on Thursday morning. Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie, and Jiang Xinlin are the youngest-ever crew to be part of a Chinese space mission since the construction of Tiangong space station. Our reporter Sun Ye has more.

With the crowd cheering, the Shenzhou 17 crew embarked on a journey that will see them spend six months aboard China's Space Station. 

My colleague Wu Lei was at the starting point of the journey. 

At 11:14 on Thursday morning, the Shenzhou 17 mission launched from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. The launch was declared a complete success. 

On board is the youngest Shenzhou crew ever, averaging 38 years-old. 

The three members will replace the Shenzhou 16 crew that's currently onboard the Tiangong space station. The Shenzhou 16 crew is scheduled to return to earth in a few days. 

The Shenzhou 17 mission is China's second manned mission this year, and the second since China's Space Station entered long-term operation. 

Two decades after China sent its first taikonaut to space in October 2003. 

Thursday's launch is also the 21st for China's Long March 2F carrier rocket. 

And there's been a changing of the guard when it comes to the vessel's chief designer-reflecting the continued development of China's next generation rocket. 

LIU FENG Chief Designer, Long March 2F Carrier Rocket, China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology "I feel a bit different today and I felt the huge responsibility. And everyone is working towards one goal. As I take this role, the traditions in the rocket system stays on."

RONG YI Former Chief Designer, Long March 2F Carrier Rocket, China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology "Even though I have taken on a new position. But the feeling is the same. We've been very well prepared for this mission, and the rocket's condition is also very good. Once again, we reliably, safely, and punctually sent taikonauts into space. To be able to hand over and witness the success with our new chief designer on site, I'm very happy."

SUN YE Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center "Two Chinese crewed missions are scheduled to fly to the Tiangong space station every year, and the joy here that follows a successful manned launch is still infectious. China's Manned Space Agency says there are plans to expand the Space Station to a cross-shape assembly. So we could expect more of this celebratory moments in the future. Sun Ye, CGTN, Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center."