The Long March-7 rocket carrying the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft has been transported to the launch pad at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan Province, marking a significant step in China's ongoing efforts to supply its space station.

According to the China Manned Space Agency, all facilities and equipment at the launch site are functioning properly. Preparations for various pre-launch function checks and joint tests are ongoing, ensuring that the mission adheres to the planned timeline.

The Long March-7 rocket represents China's latest generation of medium-sized launch vehicles. Powered by kerosene and liquid oxygen, this rocket is recognized for its reliability, safety features, and environmentally friendly design, standing at an impressive height of 53.1 meters with a diameter of 3.35 meters.

With a payload capacity of 14 tonnes to low-Earth orbit, the Long March-7 is capable of meeting the mass requirements necessary for delivering supplies via the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft, as confirmed by Wang Xi from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.

This rocket series has successfully launched previous cargo crafts, including Tianzhou-1 through Tianzhou-8, demonstrating a consistent track record in orbital missions.

In a move to ensure the safety of its crewed spaceflight program, a backup rocket has been prepared to be deployed if an urgent situation arises, with the capability of being launched within three months, according to Guo Jiarui of CASC.

An innovative feature of the Long March-7 is its ability to dynamically recalculate its optimal flight path, akin to modern navigation systems adjusting routes based on traffic. This technology contributes to an impressive orbital insertion accuracy within four seconds.

Tianzhou-9 will play a critical role in the operation and maintenance of China's space station, being the fourth cargo spacecraft in the application and development phase.

On board Tianzhou-9 are approximately 6.5 tonnes of supplies, which include essential consumables, propellants, and scientific experimental equipment, aimed at supporting the work and life of taikonauts aboard the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions.

Notably, this mission will deliver two sets of domestically developed spacesuits that have enhanced operational lifespans, allowing for a total of 20 spacewalks over four years, a significant improvement from previous models.

Additionally, the mission will introduce a core muscle training device to the space station, designed to mitigate the effects of muscle atrophy during extended stays in microgravity, alongside two advanced space science experimental apparatus.