[FPSPACE] Shenzhou 2 Launch Imminent, Chinese Manned Space Program Targets the Moon

[Dwayne Allen Day]

On Tue, 31 Oct 2000, Larry Klaes wrote:

> 31 October 2000: Shenzhou 2 Launch Imminent, 
> Chinese Manned Space Program Targets the Moon

> Shenzhou, meaning "Magic Vessel", was unmanned during its 
> maiden voyage. Persistent rumors would have us believe that 
> a launch of the next Shenzhou spacecraft is about to take 
> place - perhaps before the end of this year. 

I was at a conference on Wednesday where a top Chinese space official was
asked about this.  His answer was so abstract that it was
funny.  Something along the lines of:  "Of course, these are the kinds of
decisions that have to be studied closely and you can be sure that we are
studying it closely."

He completely ignored another question about China visiting ISS.  I think
he just forgot the question.

He was more candid on other things, essentially pointing out that their
space program is poor and it will stay that way for a long time.  In other
words:  No ambitious plans.


> Note the museum display of the two Chinese cosmonauts 
> on Luna, complete with the national Chinese flag and
> the English word CHINA in big red letters all over 
> their silvery version of the lunar rover.

I don't think they are going to be realistically considering a moon
mission any time soon.



DDAY