China launches Shenzhou 23 mission

The Shenzhou 23 mission launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Monday, marking one of China's most ambitious steps toward its goal of a 2030 moon landing.

Among the three astronauts is Lai Ka-ying, the first person from Hong Kong to enter space, who underwent 1,700 hours of rigorous training for the assignment.

One crew member is scheduled to spend a full year in orbit to study the long-term effects of microgravity on the human body.

The successful docking with the Tiangong space station further solidifies China's position as a leading global power in space exploration.