China completes joint rehearsal for Tianzhou-8 cargo mission

China successfully conducted the joint rehearsal for its Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft on Wednesday morning, confirming all systems are ready for launch.

The comprehensive test, coordinated by the Beijing Aerospace Control Center, took place at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in south China's Hainan Province. Teams simulated the entire launch sequence, from preparations through liftoff and flight procedures, to ensuring all systems work together seamlessly.

"We've completed connecting the rocket to all critical support systems, including fueling, gas supply and air conditioning. All systems are functioning properly," said Zhou Hong from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.

Zhou Geqiang from the Astronaut Center of China confirmed that all astronaut-related systems have passed initial testing, and the spacecraft has been successfully transferred to the launch tower.

The Tianzhou-8 cargo ship will deliver essential supplies to the China Space Station, where the Shenzhou-19 crew began their six-month mission on October 30.

(Cover: The combination of the Tianzhou-8 cargo spacecraft and a Long March-7 Y9 carrier rocket, Wenchang, south China's Hainan Province, November 13, 2024. /CFP)