Chinese space capsule returns safely from 15-day trip to prototype space station

A Chinese space capsule with three astronauts has landed safely on the country’s northern grasslands after a 15-day trip to a prototype space station, marking the latest success for China’s manned space programme as it enters its second decade.

The Shenzhou 10’s descent module landed by parachute in the vast territory of Inner Mongolia with the three crew members, including Wang Haiping, China’s second female astronaut to complete a mission.

“Space is our dream, the fatherland is our home. Thanks to all compatriots who supported us and best wishes for the wealth and success of our fatherland and the ever greater happiness of our people,” mission commander and two-time space traveler Nie Haisheng said to the cameras.