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Shenzhou-20 Returns for Damage Assessment After Six Months

12/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 1, 2025, China Central Television (CCTV) reported Shenzhou-20 is unfit for flight and will return for damage assessment.
The spacecraft stayed six months at Tiangong, and a crack in its return capsule window, found before November 5, led to a nine-day delay in the crew's return.
The China Manned Space Agency confirmed Shenzhou-20's uncrewed return, and experts will analyze damage from space debris that caused a significant crack.

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Story summary

On December 1, 2025, China Central Television (CCTV) reported Shenzhou-20 is unfit for flight and will return for damage assessment.
The spacecraft stayed six months at Tiangong, and a crack in its return capsule window, found before November 5, led to a nine-day delay in the crew's return.
The China Manned Space Agency confirmed Shenzhou-20's uncrewed return, and experts will analyze damage from space debris that caused a significant crack.