 A model of Tiangong-2, the prototype for the LCMs | |
| Module statistics | |
|---|---|
| Launch date | 24 July 2022: Wentian 31 October 2022: Mengtian |
| Launch vehicle | Long March 5B |
| Mass | ~21,500 kg (47,400 lb) (dry mass of each LCM) |
| Length | 17.9 m (59 ft) |
| Diameter | 4.2 m (14 ft) |
The Laboratory Cabin Modules (LCM) (Chinese: 实验舱) are components of the Tiangong space station. Based on the Tiangong-2 experimental space module, the LCMs complete the third and final stage of Project 921, the CNSA's program to establish a permanent Chinese space station. While China's small uncrewed spacecraft can provide platforms for zero gravity and exposure to space for scientific research, the LCMs offer a long term environment combined with ready access by human researchers over periods that far exceed the capabilities of Shenzhou spacecraft. Operations are controlled from the Beijing Aerospace Command and Control Center in China.
The first LCM, Wentian (simplified Chinese: 问天; traditional Chinese: 問天; pinyin: Wèn Tiān; lit. 'Quest for the Heavens[1]'), was launched into orbit on 24 July 2022. The second LCM, Mengtian (simplified Chinese: 梦天; traditional Chinese: 夢天; pinyin: Mèng Tiān; lit. 'Dreaming of the Heavens[1]'), was launched into orbit on 31 October 2022.[2]
- ^ a b "Planned space station details made public". China Daily. 2018-04-26.
The two space labs, Wentian, or Quest for Heavens, and Mengtian, or Dreaming of Heavens
- ^ Jones, Andrew (31 May 2022). "Rocket to launch China's next space station module arrives at launch center". SpaceNews. Retrieved 1 June 2022.