Shenzhou-21 and Shenzhou-23 Crews Complete ISS Handover, Tiangong Space Station Gets New Commander
Summary: On May 28, 2026 (Beijing Time), the Shenzhou-21 and Shenzhou-23 astronaut crews successfully completed the in-orbit handover ceremony aboard China's Tiangong Space Station, transferring control of the orbital outpost to the incoming crew. The Shenzhou-21 crew, which arrived at the station on November 1, 2025, has completed all planned tasks and will return to Earth aboard Shenzhou-22 at the Dongfeng landing site in the coming days.
Handover Ceremony Aboard Tiangong Space Station
According to Xinhua News Agency (Jiuquan, May 28), the Shenzhou-21 and Shenzhou-23 crews conducted the handover ceremony on May 28, exchanging control of China's Tiangong Space Station. The Shenzhou-21 crew arrived at the station on October 31, 2025, and has been in orbit for nearly seven months, completing all assigned missions.
The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that the Shenzhou-21 crew has fulfilled all mission objectives and will return to Earth aboard the Shenzhou-22 spacecraft at the Dongfeng landing area in the coming days. The Dongfeng recovery area completed its final full-system comprehensive drill on the evening of May 27, having thoroughly tested all aspects of the search and recovery operations.
Shenzhou-21 Mission Review
The Shenzhou-21 crew launched on the evening of October 31, 2025, and arrived at the Tiangong Space Station the following day. During their mission, the crew carried out multiple space science experiments and technical tests, and cooperated with space station platform maintenance and equipment replacement operations. Throughout their stay, the space station maintained stable operation with all systems functioning normally.
Dongfeng Landing Site Ready for Crew Return
The Dongfeng landing area has completed its final full-system comprehensive drill ahead of the Shenzhou-21 crew's return. The drill comprehensively covered all aspects of the search and recovery mission, providing robust support for the safe return of the astronauts. All participating systems are reported to be in good condition and fully prepared for the crew's homecoming.
Shenzhou-23 Crew Takes Command of Tiangong
With the completion of the handover ceremony, the Shenzhou-23 crew officially took command of China's Tiangong Space Station. The Shenzhou-23 crew successfully docked with the space station on May 25, 2026. The crew notably includes China's first astronaut from Hong Kong, Li Jiaying, whose presence further enhances the station's scientific research capabilities.