The three astronauts of China's Shenzhou-21 mission have successfully returned to Earth, concluding a six-month stay aboard the Tiangong space station. The crew, consisting of Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang, landed safely in the Dongfeng landing site in Inner Mongolia on April 1, 2026, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).
During their mission, which began in October 2025, the crew conducted a series of scientific experiments and technology tests. Their work included research in space medicine, microgravity physics, and material sciences, contributing to the operational experience of China's permanent orbital outpost.
The return marks the successful completion of the fourth crewed mission to the Tiangong station. The CMSA stated that the astronauts are in good health and that the mission achieved all its planned objectives, paving the way for future long-term habitation and research in low Earth orbit.
