China's Shenzhou 23 spacecraft launches with 3 astronauts
China has launched the Shenzhou 23 spacecraft with three astronauts heading to its space station.
The launch took place Sunday night from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
One astronaut is set to stay in space for a year to explore human adaptability in long-duration spaceflights.
The mission includes Zhu Yangzhu, Zhang Zhiyuan and Lai Ka-ying, the first astronaut from Hong Kong.
The crew will conduct science projects and complete an in-orbit rotation with the Shenzhou 21 crew.
The launch is part of China's efforts to expand its space program, aiming for a crewed lunar landing by 2030.
China launches Shenzhou 23 mission
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