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https://www.wsj.com/articles/china-launches-three-astronauts-including-first-civilian-into-orbit-898a29b9

China sent its first civilian astronaut into orbit on Tuesday, part of a new crew that’s scheduled to spend five months on its space station, Tiangong. WSJ’s Clarence Leong explains the significance behind the mission. Photo: Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

China Launches Three Astronauts, Including First Civilian, Into Orbit

Mission to relieve space-station crew shows nation’s growing capability and drive to rival U.S. beyond Earth

By Clarence Leong

Updated May 30, 2023 6:01 am ET

SINGAPORE—China sent its first civilian astronaut into orbit Tuesday as part of a new crew for its space station, showcasing the nation’s expanding capabilities in space at a time when mounting military and technological competition with the U.S. is stoking geopolitical tension.

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