PRACTICE RUN: Chinese astronauts train underwater. China’s Shenzhou 7 manned space mission, which will include the first space walk by a Chinese astronauts, is to launch in October

The research team that developed Shenzhou 7, China's third manned spacecraft, will begin final testing after arriving at a northwest satellite launch center in a few days, according to a space mission official in Beijing on July 1.

The research and development team of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. will set out for Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in early July, said Zhang Bainan, Chief Designer of Shenzhou 7. According to insiders, this signals the final preparation stage of the country's third manned space mission.

"Shenzhou 7's functions and performance fulfill the comprehensive requirements of the space program," he noted, adding that the spacecraft had passed inspections by an expert panel.

The Shenzhou 7 manned spacecraft is expected to be ready for launch in