2002 : China launches the space lab module [UNK] , which means ` ` heavenly palace '' in Chinese . China 's first space laboratory module launched Thursday , according to state-run media , an important milestone in China 's plan to build a space station . The space lab is part of an experiment to test space rendezvous and docking capabilities . China sent its first astronaut into space in 2003 , part of a ` ` three - step '' strategy to develop a space program .
2002 : China launches the space lab module [UNK] , which means ` ` heavenly palace '' in Chinese . The space lab is part of an experiment to test space rendezvous and docking capabilities . China sent its first astronaut into space in 2003 , part of a ` ` three - step '' strategy to develop a space program .