_*China to Launch Tianwen-2 Asteroid Probe and Sampling Mission*_ *Why in News* * China is scheduled to launch its Tianwen-2 asteroid exploration and sampling mission on May 29, 2025, as confirmed by the China National Space Administration (CNSA). *Key Points* * Launch preparations are progressing smoothly at the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province. * The mission will use the Long March-3B rocket, which has been fueled and readied for launch. * Tianwen-2 probe has completed major milestones including assembly, testing, fueling, and functional checks. * The launch vehicle underwent final preparations: transfer, hoisting, probe-rocket docking, and payload fairing encapsulation. * Integrated rehearsals and coordinated system checks were conducted among the Xichang Launch Center, Beijing Aerospace Control Center, Xi’an Monitoring Center, Yuanwang tracking ships, and ground stations to ensure mission readiness.