the command for reentry to begin was given by a tracking ship off the coast of South Africa. It was thought before the flight that the Chinese would attempt a water landing to test the emergency system but this did not happen. The orbital module remained in orbit until September 9, 2003. See also Chinese space program Tiangong program Shenzhou spacecraft Long March rocket Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center References 'Shenzhou 4' Unmanned Spaceflight Mission Chinese Defence Today. Accessed July 23, 2005. 'Shenzhou 4' notes. Accessed July 23, 2005. Jonathan's Space Report No. 492. Accessed July 23, 2005. Shenzhou 04 2002 in China Spacecraft launched in 2002