This screen image captured at Beijing Aerospace Control Center on June 26, 2025 shows Shenzhou-20 astronauts Chen Dong (R) and Chen Zhongrui closing the hatch of space station lab module Wentian's airlock cabin. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Shenzhou-20 crew on board China's orbiting space station completed their mission's second series of extravehicular activities on Thursday, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA).

The astronaut trio -- Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie -- worked for about 6.5 hours and completed the task at 9:29 p.m. (Beijing Time), assisted by the space station's robotic arm and a team on Earth.

Chen Dong and Chen Zhongrui, tasked with conducting spacewalk operations, completed the installation of a debris protection device and the inspection and maintenance of external equipment, according to the CMSA.

They also installed foot restraint adapters and interface adapters on the extravehicular platform, which will help astronauts during extravehicular activities. Subsequent spacewalks are expected to be shortened by approximately 40 minutes as a result, the CMSA said.

The crew is currently making steady progress on various space science experiments. Next, they will focus on conducting research and technology tests in key areas such as space life sciences, microgravity fundamental physics, space materials science, space medicine, and advanced aerospace technologies.