The brief
- Tiangong: three modules (Tianhe core, Wentian and Mengtian labs) in T-shaped orbit.
- Three-person crews rotate every six months; cross-shape expansion announced June 2026.
- Will be sole crewed orbital outpost after ISS retires in early 2031; China's sole human presence.
Technical approach
Modular assembly
Orbital module assembly
Three modules launched separately atop Long March 5B and docked automatically or via crew.
Crew rotation
Continuous occupancy
Three-person crews launched every six months via Shenzhou, with overlaps for knowledge transfer.
Robotic arms
Large manipulators
Primary 10.2-m arm on Tianhe and secondary arm on Wentian support assembly and EVA.
Future expansion
Cross-shaped configuration
Phase 2 expansion with comprehensive module planned to increase research capacity.
