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Sept. 25-30: Time for launch of new spacecraft

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-09-07 00:05

JIUQUAN, Gansu Province - China's manned spacecraft Shenzhou-7 will be launched at an appropriate time between September 25 and 30 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern Gansu Province, a spokesman said here on Saturday.

The information was revealed at a meeting held by the headquarters of the mission, which will accomplish the first space walk by Chinese astronauts.

The spokesman said propellant would be instilled into the rocket on Sunday.

"All the major systems involved in the launching are now in the final preparation. The main tests for the spacecraft, the Long-March II-F rocket, suits for the spacewalk and a satellite accompanying the fly have also been finished," said the spokesman.

In addition, the ground control system is fully prepared, including the launch site, the landing site, and the communication for test and control.