China Launches Shenzhou-23 Mission to Tiangong Space Station
On May 24, 2026, China launched the Shenzhou-23 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert. The crew, consisting of commander Zhu Yangzhu, Zhang Zhiyuan, and Dr. Lai Ka-ying, is headed to the Tiangong space station to conduct dozens of cutting-edge scientific experiments. One of the three astronauts is scheduled to remain in orbit for a full year, aiming to set a new in-orbit stay record. This mission marks a historic milestone as Dr. Lai Ka-ying becomes the first astronaut from Hong Kong to enter space. Following their arrival, the Shenzhou-23 crew held a handover ceremony with the Shenzhou-21 crew, officially taking over operations of the space station as the previous crew prepares for their return to Earth.
Prefer swipe-first reading?
Install the app to keep reading with faster loads and a smoother mobile experience.
Sources
Test Your News I.Q. — take today’s quiz ... 2026 Elections Election Results Election calendar White House Congress Supreme Court The latest AP-NORC polls Ground Game ... Exclusive insights and key stories from the world of politics.
What is China’s Shenzhou-23 mission? Inside the year-long space experiment | Euronews
Over the weekend, China launched the Shenzhen-23 mission to its space station with three astronauts, including one who is set to stay in space for a year. ... The spacecraft blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in China’s northwestern Gobi Desert with three astronauts onboard: commander Zhu Yangzhu, Zhang Zhiyuan, and Lai Ka-ying. The astronauts will be conducting dozens of experiments while in space, including an in-orbit rotation with the crew of Shenzhou...
Hong Kong’s first astronaut participates in Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission - USA Today
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 May 2026 – At 11.08pm on May 24, Dr Lai Ka-ying made history by becoming the first Hong Kong astronaut to blast off into space aboard the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceship.
Fact Checks
Related news
Brazilian Court Blocks Bolsonaro from Visiting Sons on Father's Day
Brazil's top court has issued a ban preventing former president Jair Bolsonaro from visiting his sons on Father's Day this Sunday. The decision enforces stricter visitation guidelines following recent legal disputes. The restrictions come after the Supreme Court ruled that the family had breached terms, with some reports noting previous actions, such as Flavio Bolsonaro reading letters online despite social media bans. Some court rulings have extended these blocks for longer periods.
IS-linked Militants Attack Congo Village; UN Imposes Sanctions on Armed Groups
An attack by militants affiliated with Islamic State-linked groups has reportedly killed at least 13 people in a village located in eastern Congo, near the border with Uganda. The region continues to face severe instability. Beyond these attacks, suspected fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have been active, and the UN Security Council recently imposed sanctions on leaders of various armed groups operating throughout eastern DRC.
Lionel Messi's Father and Agent, Jorge Messi, Dies at Age 68
Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi, died at the age of 68. Reports indicate he had been battling a long-term illness. Messi's father was instrumental in his son's career, having accompanied him to Europe when he signed with Barcelona as a teenager. He was widely recognized for his dedication and presence supporting Lionel throughout his professional life.
Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know (10 sources)
Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know (10 sources) This story has been covered by multiple news sources, providing comprehensive coverage from different perspectives. **www.npr.org** reports: Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know : NPRBack ButtonSearch IconFilter Icon ### [Space](https://www.npr.org/sections/space/) Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know ====================================================== August 8, 20268:56 PM ET By [Chandelis Duster](https://www.npr.org/people/g-s1-23120/chandelis-duster) 
Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong Leads Wisconsin Governor Race Amid Scrutiny
Francesca Hong has emerged as a front-runner in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race, potentially making history as the state's first socialist governor. Her strong polling numbers position her as a significant figure in this critical battleground state. The campaign faces intense scrutiny regarding its democratic socialist platform and policy shifts, including evolving views on defunding police. Meanwhile, national Democratic figures have expressed skepticism about Hong’s electability, while others suggest alternative candidates may benefit from the primary outcome.
Three inmates killed in recent separate prison clashes across Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka reported that three inmates were killed and more than twenty people were injured during two separate, deadly prison clashes. The unrest has prompted the deployment of military troops to major correctional facilities, including Welikada and Magazine Prisons. Officials attribute the growing instability to severe overcrowding within the country's jail system, which is reportedly operating at capacity.
Take Yomuyo with you
Download the mobile app for personalized headlines and quick access to breaking stories.