Capsule damaged - Chinese astronauts stranded in orbit

Within China’s Shenzhou-20 mission, three astronauts currently serving in orbit have had their return to Earth delayed, local media reported.

According to available information, the reentry capsule intended to bring them back may have collided with space debris. For this reason, the flight control center decided to prioritize safety and conduct additional inspections.

During diagnostics, possible surface damage to the capsule was detected, and the heat protection coating as well as control systems are being re-evaluated.

The astronauts — Chen Dong, Chen Runzhu, and Wang Zhe — remain aboard the Tiangong station, continuing to perform their duties. Official reports indicate there is currently no direct threat to their lives or health.

Experts note that one of the main challenges in orbit is space debris. It consists of fragments of satellites, rocket parts, damaged equipment, and even millimeter-sized metal particles traveling at enormous speeds. A single impact of such debris can pierce the capsule’s protective shell or disable its reentry system.

Engineers are said to have the situation fully under control. Once all technical diagnostics are completed, the exact return time of the Shenzhou-20 crew is expected to be determined.