China and SpaceX Make Strides in Space Exploration

China successfully launched a three-man crew to the Tiangong space station, marking the sixth long-duration crew mission to the station. India conducted a successful test of the crew escape system for its Gaganyaan spacecraft, a significant milestone in its human spaceflight program. Avio, the Italian company that builds the Vega rocket, is seeking permission to market Vega launch services independently from Arianespace. ABL Space Systems is preparing for another launch after a rocket failure in January, introducing an upgraded rocket design and a larger launch mount. SpaceX aims to average one launch every 2.5 days next year, driven by launches of upgraded Starlink satellites. ULA's CEO revealed that the first launch of the Vulcan rocket is scheduled for December 24, and he hinted at the possibility of ULA being up for sale. SpaceX performed another wet dress rehearsal for Starship, with signs pointing to a possible test flight in November.