Shenzhou-21 Crew Advances Space Experiments on Tiangong Space Station

The Shenzhou-21 crew, consisting of mission commander Zhang Lu and astronauts Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang, has been conducting a series of experiments aboard China's Tiangong space station since their launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on October 31, 2025. As of mid-March 2026, the crew has spent over four months in orbit, focusing on agricultural experiments, equipment maintenance, and health monitoring.

China Space Station: Crew Experiments SpotlightedShenzhou-21 crew advances space experiments, equipment maintenance on TiangongGlobal Times

One of the key achievements of the Shenzhou-21 mission is the successful cultivation of cherry tomatoes using an aeroponic system, which vaporizes water into a fine mist to enhance growth efficiency. The astronauts documented the growth process through photographs, harvested the ripe tomatoes, and sealed both the plants and produce for preservation. Following this success, the crew plans to expand their agricultural experiments to include wheat, carrots, and both medicinal and edible plants. These trials aim to validate essential technologies and broaden the range of crops suitable for space cultivation.

Global Times

In addition to agricultural work, the crew has engaged in various scientific experiments related to materials science and microgravity. Tasks included cleaning the experimental chamber in the unpressurized compartment, replacing experimental samples, and maintaining the electrodes of the central mechanism. The astronauts also conducted microgravity combustion science experiments, which involved replacing the burner and sampling cover within the experiment cabinet.

Shenzhou-21 crew advances space experiments, equipment maintenance on Tiangong

Health monitoring is a critical aspect of the Shenzhou-21 mission. The crew regularly assesses microorganisms within the space station's environment to ensure microbial control. They have also undergone medical emergency training to familiarize themselves with rescue procedures and force application in microgravity. This training is vital for ensuring the crew's safety during their extended mission.

Global Times

The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has confirmed that the Shenzhou-21 crew remains in good health and is successfully executing their mission objectives. The agency highlighted the importance of the ongoing experiments in supporting future long-duration space missions, where bioregenerative life support systems will be essential.

Shenzhou-21 crew advances space experiments, equipment maintenance on Tiangong

While the mission has been largely praised for its scientific contributions, some critics argue that the focus on agricultural experiments may detract from other essential scientific research areas. They suggest that a more balanced approach could yield broader benefits for future space exploration.

Shenzhou-21 crew advances space experiments, equipment maintenance on Tiangong

• “Building on the success of the cherry tomato cultivation, the team will conduct aeroponic experiments with wheat, carrots, and both medicinal and edible plants as planned.” — China Central Television (CCTV)

Shenzhou-21 crew advances space experiments, equipment maintenance on Tiangong

• “These trials aim to validate key technologies and expand the range of crops and technical capabilities for space cultivation.” — China Central Television (CCTV)

China Space Station: Crew Experiments Spotlighted

The Shenzhou-21 mission continues to advance China's capabilities in space exploration, with its focus on sustainable agricultural practices and scientific research critical for future missions.

China Space Station: Crew Experiments Spotlighted