A collision with space debris has damaged the only docked spacecraft at China's Tiangong space station, leaving three astronauts without a safe ride home. The damaged craft does not meet the release conditions for a safe manned return. Meanwhile, three other crew members returned to Earth after 204 days in orbit aboard a Shenzhou spacecraft on Friday.
On Friday, three Chinese astronauts concluded a 204-day mission in orbit by returning to Earth aboard a Shenzhou spacecraft. They departed from the Tiangong space station, leaving behind three crewmates who now face an uncertain situation due to a damaged lifeboat.
The issue stems from a collision with space debris that has rendered the docked craft unusable for return. According to reports, the spacecraft "does not meet the release conditions for a safe manned return." This incident has stranded the remaining three astronauts on the station, with no immediate alternative for evacuation.
Tiangong, China's orbital outpost, continues to operate as the crew manages the aftermath. The event highlights ongoing risks from space debris in low Earth orbit, though specific details on the collision's timing or the debris involved remain limited in available information.
The return of the first trio marks a routine crew rotation, but the stranding underscores challenges in manned spaceflight. No further updates on repair efforts or rescue plans were detailed.