China Launches 'Shenzhou IV' Unmanned Spacecraft

[Urban Ranger]

I am surprised that nobody has made a thread on it. From People's Daily:

China launched its fourth unmanned spacecraft "Shenzhou IV" early Monday morning with a "Long March II F" carrier rocket, a move that could soon lead to its manned space voyage.

Leading scientists in charge of China's manned space program said the successful launch of the "Shenzhou (divine vessel) IV" laid a solid foundation for the country's future task of sending Chinese astronauts to outer space.

It is said that the PRC prepares to launch a manned mission some time late next year.

[Zkribbler]

...And China sticks its big toe into the 20th Century.

Now, if it'd only become a constituional democratic republic and fully embrace the free enterprise system, what a great country it would become.

[Lancer]

What if the Chinese get to Mars first? Maybe a space race is in order.

[My Wife Hates CIV]

They need to get someone in orbit first. And bring him/her back! They have a bit to do before a Mars mission. At least a successful Mars mission.

[DanS]

"...And China sticks its big toe into the 20th Century."



Actually, I like to see it. It's reinventing a 50 year old wheel, but one step at a time I guess.

[Zkribbler]

Originally posted by Lancer
What if the Chinese get to Mars first?

OMG, we must beat them there!! There is no way we can allow Mars to become known as a red planet!!!

[Lancer]

IIRC it was 1958 when the first American when into space, the very yeah of my birth. I am now an old fart and the Chinese are almost there.

Well. We didn't win but they definately lost.

[The Mad Monk]

Now, now, they are making their way Westward as fast as they can. Why, in the other thread, UR noted that he purchased Capitalism II...

[Lancer]

"red planet"