Harbin Institute of Technology of China revealed recently that it has made great progress in research and development of the ground experimental system for the Shenzhou VII out-of-capsule spacesuit, and completed sample production of this spacesuit.

According to the college, the sample of the Shenzhou VII spacesuit uses materials with China's independent intellectual property right. Unlike spacesuits made in the past, the Shenzhou VII spacesuit plays the role as a mini aircraft which will be tested by the ground experimental system to decide what kind of spacesuit is more suitable for space activities.

China will launch the Shenzhou VII manned spaceship in 2008.

(Xinhua News Agency April 26, 2006)