The other thing to note is that Tiangong is operating well, SZ-20 crew are participating in experiments along with SZ-21 astronauts. Crew hand over usually sees the space station host 6 astros for 4-5 days, but we're now into day 11.

Amid this, CCTV has shown footage of activity at Jiuquan, though not showing what's stacked on CZ-2F. Rehearsals, or getting SZ-22 ready to fly? Whatever is happening: "All work is progressing steadily and orderly according to plan."

Things to look for include activity at Jiuquan, such as rollout of Shenzhou-22, which is already in state of near-readiness, while SZ-23 will also need to be prepared in the background for an emergency to cover SZ-21 crew. Tiangong should be able to host the 6 astros for a while.

This is a "semi-fixed" floating offshore launch platform. The first launch of Pallas-1 will actually take place at Jiuquan in northwest China.

Seems to be for stereo mapping, so why not. spacenews.com/china-launch...

Also along for the ride are four black mice

It should be stated here--in the context of geopolitical competition--that who gets astronauts on the Moon first in the 21st Century is symbolically important at least, but much more significant will be who executes a longer term, sustainable program. China's playing a long game.

This follows China in recent years stating commercial space to be a priority as part of plans to foster high-quality development, committing to landing astronauts on the Moon before 2030, and establishing and medium-long term space science and exploration roadmap to 2050. (3/4)