The Tiangong space station, the first space station, is not just for China but for all humanity. The completion of Tiangong, expected by the end of next year, will be yet another milestone for an ambitious space program. The construction of the station is based on the experience gained from its pioneers, Tiangong-l and Tiangong-2. The first module(舱), the Tianhe core module, was launched on 29 April 2021, followed by multiple crewed and uncrewed missions and two more modules to be launched by 2022.
According to China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), which operates the space station, the purpose and missions of Tiangong space station are listed as: breakthrough in key technologies such as permanent human operations in orbit, long- term autonomous spaceflight of the space station, life support technology; development of technology that can aid future deep space exploration.
The Tianhe Core Cabin Module (CCM) provides life support and living quarters for three crew members and provides guidance, navigation (导航) for the station. The module also provides the station's power and life support system. The station is equipped with a small kitchen for food preparation and the first-ever microwave oven in the spaceflight, so that astronauts can always have hot food whenever they need. 120 different types of food, selected based on astronauts' preference, are stored aboard.
China's intention to build its own space station was amplified(增强的) after NASA refused Chines participation in International Space Station in 2011.On 22 February 2017, CMSA and Italian Space Agency (ASD) signed an agreement to cooperate on long-term human spaceflight activities. The agreement holds importance due to Italy's leading position in the field of human spaceflight with regard to the creation and development of the International Space Station and it shows Italy's increased expectation in China's developing space station program. Tiangong is also expected to host experiments from many other countries.
