Horror as 3 astronauts left stranded after return capsule damaged by mystery object

Three astronauts have been left stranded in orbit after their return capsule was struck by what is believed to be space debris. Astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie have been aboard the Tiangong space station, dubbed China's "Heavenly Palace", for six months.

Departing for space in April the astronauts were scheduled to return to Earth on November 5, however, disaster struck after their ship was hit by an "unknown" object. Damage was found on their capsule's hull meaning they have been left stranded. China's Manned Spaceflight Agency (CMSA) has said the astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-20 mission are now trapped on the Tiangong space station.

The trio had been carrying out experiments and space walks while living on the CCP-operated space station. China's Manned Spaceflight Agency (CMSA) believe the crew's return capsule was hit by a small piece of space debris.

The agency said on Wednesday: "The Shenzhou-20 manned spacecraft is suspected of being hit by a tiny piece of space debris, and an impact analysis and risk assessment are under way."

Sparking fears about whether they will ever return to the earth the men must know carry out careful examinations on the capsule before they can attempt to use it again.

The cohort of astronauts who were to replace them had already arrived at Tiangong before the collision was detected. Both crews are now working together to inspect the spacecraft and assess whether repairs can make it safe for re-entry.

The CMSA said: "To ensure the safety and health of the astronauts and the success of the mission, it has been decided that the Shenzhou-20 return mission, originally scheduled for 5 November, will be postponed."

Chinese science influencer Yu Jun wrote on X: "Shenzhou-22 and the Long March 2F (launcher) were already on standby. This is our rolling backup mechanism.

"They are in 'emergency duty' mode and ready to bring our astronauts home safely if needed."