Space stations help mankind explore new frontier

Space stations not only allow humanity to learn how to function beyond Earth, but are also important steppingstones for further exploration, said Edward Stone, a renowned space scientist and professor of physics at the California Institute of Technology.

At 3:31 am on Wednesday, the Shenzhou XI spacecraft, carrying two Chinese astronauts, successfully docked with Tiangong II, bringing China one step further toward a permanent presence in space.

"Advanced nations are eager to establish their presence in the new frontier of space," Stone said in an interview.