Scientists to collect data in Shenzhou capsule

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-10-01 15:20

BEIJING -- Chinese scientists will open the re-entry module of the Shenzhou VII spacecraft on Wednesday and collect various experimental samples and data inside.

The module has brought three astronauts safely back from China's third manned space mission Sunday and was transported by trains to its maker, the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) Tuesday.

"Experts will check the module's interior and exterior including the parachute, analyse their conditions and pick up the test sample of solid lubricant collected by the astronauts," said Shang Zhi, general director of the mission's spacecraft system.

According to him, the sample will be handed to the CAST for further studies and other cargos carried by the spaceship will also be collected and handed over.

There are other materials in the module, including the astronaut's EVA uniform gloves, the National Flag waved by Zhai outside the spacecraft, a silk Chinese map, three ensigns of China's Red Army and some master pieces of Chinese painting and seal cutting.

In a symbolic move marking improved cross-Strait relations, a flashdisk containing greetings from people in the Mainland and Taiwan will also be collected from the module in sight of 14 Taiwan compatriots who joined a trip to witness the space mission in Beijing.