Under The Angsana Tree

17/06/2021

China launches first crewed mission to Tiangong space station

Astronauts Return After 90-day Mission To China's Space Station

Update 26 Jul 2022: China launches Wentian module to Tiangong space station

China's first lab module for space station

China on Sunday launched Wentian, the first lab module of its space station. The new module will function both as a backup of the core module and as a powerful scientific experiment platform. The Wentian module is 17.9 meters long, has a maximum diameter of 4.2 meters and a takeoff mass of 23 tonnes, almost the size of a subway car in Beijing. It is the heaviest single-cabin active spacecraft in orbit in the world, according to Liu Gang, deputy chief designer of the China manned space program's space station system with the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST).

The Wentian module consists of a work cabin, an airlock cabin and a resource cabin. The Long March-5B Y3 carrier rocket, carrying Wentian, blasted off from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site on the coast of the southern island province of Hainan at 2:22 p.m. (Beijing Time), according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). About 495 seconds later, Wentian separated from the rocket and entered the planned orbit. The launch is a complete success, the CMSA declared.

This is the 24th flight mission since the country's manned space program was approved and initiated. The construction of China's Tiangong space station is expected to be completed this year. It will then evolve from a single-module structure into a national space laboratory with three modules -- the core module Tianhe, and lab modules Wentian and Mengtian. The Tianhe module was launched in April 2021, and the Mengtian module is set to be launched in October this year.

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3 Chinese astronauts arrive at Tiangong space station for 6-month stay

The Shenzhou 14 mission docked to China's Tianhe space station module on June 5, 2022. (Image credit: CMSA)

China's three-person Shenzhou 14 mission arrived at Tianhe, the core module of the under-construction Tiangong, early Sunday morning (June 5), about six hours after lifting off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert. The capsule docked to the Earth-facing port of Tianhe at 5:42 a.m. EDT (0942 GMT), according to a Weibo post from the China Manned Space Agency (opens in new tab). The three Shenzhou 14 crewmembers — commander Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe — are expected to spend about six months aboard the 54-foot-long (16.6 meters) Tianhe ("Harmony of the Heavens"), which launched to low Earth orbit in April 2021.

During their time in orbit, the trio will conduct a variety of scientific experiments and educational outreach activities, perform several spacewalks and install some new equipment inside and outside Tianhe, Chinese space officials have said. The astronauts will also oversee the arrival of Tiangong's other two modules, Wentian ("Quest for the Heavens") and Mengtian ("Dreaming of the Heavens"), which are scheduled to launch in July and October, respectively. Wentian and Mengtian will attach on either side of Tianhe, forming a T-shaped orbiting outpost about 20% as massive as the International Space Station (ISS).

The two previous crewed missions to Tianhe, Shenzhou 12 and Shenzhou 13, also sent three astronauts to the core module. Shenzhou 12 launched in June 2021 and lasted for three months, and the six-month-long Shenzhou 13 launched in October and returned to Earth in mid-April. Shenzhou 15 is expected to launch around the end of the year. (It's tough to know for sure; China tends not to reveal many details about its space missions until they're just about to happen.) If all goes according to plan, Shenzhou 15 will overlap with Shenzhou 14, marking the Tiangong space station's first-ever crew handover.

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Shenzhou-14 astronauts enter space station core module

On June 5, China launched the crewed spaceship Shenzhou-14, sending astronauts Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe to its space station combination for a six-month mission. The trio will cooperate with the ground team to complete the assembly and construction of China's space station, developing it from a single-module structure into a national space laboratory with three modules.

The three Shenzhou-14 astronauts successfully entered the Tianzhou-4 cargo craft at 12:19 p.m. BJT on Monday, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced. The trio was sent to China's space station on June 5. China's cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-4, with supplies for the Shenzhou-14 crewed mission, docked with the combination of the space station core module Tianhe and the Tianzhou-3 cargo craft in May.

China's manned spacecraft Shenzhou-14 was successfully launched into orbit from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on Sunday morning. Three taikonauts, Chen Dong, Liu Yang and Cai Xuzhe, will stay in orbit for six months and help complete the construction of China's space station by the end of this year.

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Three Chinese astronauts arrive at space station

Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe (L to R), Chen Dong and Liu Yang take part in a ceremony prior to the launch of the Shenzhou-14 mission (Photo: AFP/STR)

Three Chinese astronauts arrived at the country's space station on Sunday (Jun 5), the Chinese space agency for human flights said, the latest stride in Beijing's aim to become a major space power. The trio blasted off in a Long March-2F rocket at 2.44am GMT (10.44am Singapore time) from the Jiuquan launch centre in north-western China's Gobi desert, reported state broadcaster CCTV.

The team is tasked with "completing in-orbit assembly and construction of the space station", as well as "commissioning of equipment" and conducting scientific experiments, state-run CGTN said on Saturday. The astronauts entered the central module of the Tiangong station at around 12.50pm GMT (8.50pm Singapore time), the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) said. The journey took about "seven hours of flight", CCTV reported.

Tiangong, which means "heavenly palace", is expected to become fully operational by the end of the year. China's heavily promoted space programme has already seen the nation land a rover on Mars and send probes to the Moon.

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'Mystery hut' on the moon just the latest weird lunar find by China's Yutu 2 rover

China's moon rover spots cube-shaped 'mystery hut' on lunar far side

China’s Yutu 2 rover has spotted a mystery object on the horizon while working its way across Von Kármán crater on the far side of the moon.

Yutu 2 spotted a cube-shaped object on the horizon to the north and roughly 260 feet (80 meters) away in November during the mission's 36th lunar day, according to a Yutu 2 diary published by Our Space, a Chinese language science outreach channel affiliated with the China National Space Administration (CNSA). Our Space referred to the object as a "mystery hut" (神秘小屋/shenmi xiaowu), but this a placeholder name rather than an accurate description.

Team scientists have expressed a strong interest in the object and Yutu 2 is now expected to spend the next 2-3 lunar days (2-3 Earth months) traversing lunar regolith and avoiding craters to get a closer look, so updates can be expected.

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Chinese astronauts return after 90-day mission to space station

Three Chinese astronauts returned to earth on Friday after a 90-day visit to an unfinished space station in the country's first crewed mission since 2016. In a small return capsule, the three men - Nie Haisheng, Liu Boming and Tang Hongbo - landed safely in the autonomous region of Inner Mongolia in the north of China at 1:34 p.m. (0534 GMT), state media reported.

The Shenzhou-12 mission was the first of four crewed missions planned for 2021-2022 as China assembles its first permanent space station. The process requires 11 missions, including the launches of the station's three modules.

Construction kicked off in April with the launch of the Tianhe module, the future living quarters of the space station. Slightly larger than a city bus, Tianhe was where Nie, Liu and Tang have stayed since mid-June, marking China's longest spaceflight mission. While in orbit, the astronauts conducted spacewalks, validated Tianhe's life-support system, tested the module's robotic arm, and sorted supplies for upcoming crewed missions.

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Mission accomplished: China’s Shenzhou-12 crew safely back on earth

The three taikonauts, mission commander Nie Haisheng(center), Liu Boming(right) and Tang Hongbo, emerged from the Shenzhou-12 return capsule on Friday, all in good health, drawing a perfect conclusion to the mission. Photo: Xinhua

Having extended the record of Chinese astronauts' longest stay in space in a single flight mission to 90 days, the Shenzhou-12 mission crew returned to Earth days before China's Mid-Autumn Festival - the day of family reunion and friend gatherings - at the designated Dongfeng landing site in the Gobi Desert, North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Friday, marking a successful conclusion of the first crewed mission at the country's space station building stage.

The Shenzhou-12 return module separated from the orbiting module at 12:43 pm on Friday, and was then followed by a smooth separation from the propellant, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Carrying the three taikonauts - mission commander Nie Haisheng, and his fellow crew members Liu Boming and Tang Hongbo - the return capsule touched down at the landing site as of 1:34 pm.

The homecoming heroes did not have to wait too long before the search and rescue squad with the Dongfeng landing site reached them only five minutes after the return capsule made its landing on Earth, which showed China's advanced, mature rescue capabilities, and highlighted China's priority in putting taikonauts' safety always in the first place. They were soon confirmed in good physical and mental conditions.

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Shenzhou-12 crew dock with Tiangong Space Station

Chinese astronauts enter new space station after 6.5 hour flight

China launches first crewed mission to Tiangong space station

The new space race: Why China is on track to beat the US

China sends 3 astronauts on space mission

China sends astronauts on space mission to build Tiangong Space Station

Beijing is launching a manned mission on June 17, 2021 to continue construction on China’s first space station.

The Long March 2F rocket will carry the three-man crew, who will be stationed for three months at Tianhe, the core module of China’s Tiangong Space Station.

The Shenzhou-12 is the third of 11 missions to construct China’s space station, which is expected to be ready by 2022.

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The significance of China's new space station

In this Nov. 7, 2018, photo, visitors look at a life-size model of the Tianhe core module of China’s next space station at the Airshow China in Zhuhai in southern China’s Guangdong Province. China on Thursday, June 17, 2021 has launched its first crewed space mission in five years, sending three astronauts to a new space station that marks a milestone in the country’s ambitious space program. (Chinatopix via AP) (Uncredited/CHINATOPIX)

Adding a crew to China’s new orbiting space station is another major advance for the burgeoning space power.

Here’s a look at key developments:

WHAT’S THE MISSION’S PURPOSE?
WHY IS CHINA BUILDING THE STATION?
POLITICS AND SECURITY
WHO ARE THE ASTRONAUTS?
WHAT ELSE IS CHINA DOING IN SPACE?

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China willing to expand intl cooperation in space station, joint flight

China plans to complete the construction of its space station by the end of 2022. /CFP

China will expand international cooperation through its space station, including scientific projects and joint flights with foreign astronauts, Ji Qiming, assistant to the director of China Manned Space Engineering Office, said at Wednesday's press conference on the launch of Shenzhou-12 manned spacecraft.

Outer space is the commonwealth of people all over the world, and the exploration of the universe is the shared cause of mankind, said Ji. "Consistent with the principles of peaceful use, equality and mutual benefit, and common development, China's manned space mission is willing to carry out international cooperation and exchanges with countries and regions worldwide that are committed to the peaceful use of outer space."

Since the implementation of the project, Ji said, extensive cooperation has been carried out with space agencies from other countries including Russia, Germany, France, Belgium and Italy, as well as international space organizations such as the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs and the European Space Agency, in spacecraft technology, space science experiments and astronaut selection and training.

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China-Russia space cooperation highlights high level of political trust

When announcing the Shenzhou-12 manned spaceship to be launched on Thursday, the China Manned Space Agency on Wednesday mentioned that China has engaged in broad cooperation with countries including Russia.

Factors such as uncertainty over US foreign policy "are pushing Russia and China to expand space cooperation," said Danil Bochkov (Bochkov), an expert at the Russian International Affairs Council. What is the importance of China-Russia cooperation in space? What do China's efforts to explore the space guided by the idea of building community with a shared future for mankind mean for the international space industry?

Bochkov shard his insights with Global Times (GT) reporter Lu Yuanzhi.

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China's Shenzhou 12 astronauts send back stunning images of Earth

A portion of South Africa, photographed by Shenzhou 12 astronaut Tang Hango in late August 2021. (Image credit: Tang Hangbo/China Manned Space Engineering Office)

China's Shenzhou 12 astronauts have sent back stunning images taken out of small windows of the Tianhe space station module in low Earth orbit.

The three astronauts, the first crewmembers to visit Tianhe, have been aboard the module since June 17. The crew have completed two extravehicular activities (EVAs), or spacewalks, and carried out a range of experiments, but China's human spaceflight agency has only recently released images taken by the astronauts.

A first batch of images taken by Tang Hongbo and released in August include views from space of the Gulf of Guinea, lights illuminating north Africa, the Ethiopian Highlands and Indian Ocean, as well as Tang's sleeping quarters. Shenzhou 12 commander Nie Haisheng also sent back images of Beijing at night and a section of the Pacific Ocean.

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China's Tiangong space station

3D illustration of Tiangong, the Chinese space station, orbiting Earth, with Earth in the background. (Image credit: Getty Images)

Tiangong is a space station that the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA) is building in low Earth orbit. In May 2021, China launched Tianhe, the first of the orbiting space station's three modules, and the country aims to finish building the station by the end of 2022. CMSA hopes to keep Tiangong inhabited continuously by three astronauts for at least a decade. The space station will host many experiments from both China and other countries. Tiangong, which means "Heavenly Palace," will consist of Tianhe, the main habitat for astronauts, and two modules dedicated to hosting experiments, Mengtian and Wentian, both of which are due to launch in 2022. Shenzhou spacecraft, launching from Jiuquan in the Gobi Desert, will send crews of three astronauts to the space station, while Tianzhou cargo spacecraft will launch from Wenchang on the Chinese island of Hainan to deliver supplies and fuel to the station.

Tiangong will be much smaller than the International Space Station (ISS), with only three modules compared with 16 modules on the ISS. Tiangong will also be lighter than the ISS, which weighs about 400 tons (450 metric tons) following the recent addition of Russia's Nauka module. The 54-foot-long (16.6 meter) Tianhe module launched with a docking hub that allows it to receive Shenzhou and Tianzhou spacecraft, as well as welcome the two later experiment modules. A large robotic arm will help position the Mengtian and Wentian modules and assist astronauts during spacewalks.

Tianhe is much larger than the Tiangong 1 and 2 test space labs China launched in the last decade and nearly three times heavier, at 24 tons (22 metric tons). The new Tiangong, visiting spacecraft and cargo spacecraft will expand the usable space for the astronauts; so much that they'll feel as though "they will be living in a villa," compared with how little space was available on previous Chinese space labs, Bai Linhou, deputy chief designer of the space station, told CCTV.

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Shenzhou (spacecraft)

Shenzhou consists of three modules: a forward orbital module (轨道舱), a reentry module (返回舱) in the middle, and an aft service module (推进舱)

Shenzhou (Chinese: 神舟; pinyin: Shénzhōu, /ˈʃɛnˈdʒoʊ/; see § Etymology) is a spacecraft developed and operated by China to support its crewed spaceflight program, China Manned Space Program. Its design resembles the Russian Soyuz spacecraft, but it is larger in size. The first launch was on 19 November 1999 and the first crewed launch was on 15 October 2003. In March 2005, an asteroid was named 8256 Shenzhou in honour of the spacecraft.

The literal meaning of the native name 神舟 (p: Shénzhōu; /ˈʃɛnˈdʒoʊ/) is "the Divine vessel [on the Heavenly River]", to which Heavenly River (天河) means the Milky Way in Classical Chinese. 神舟 is a pun and neologism that plays on the poetic word referring to China, 神州, meaning Divine realm, which bears the same pronunciation. For further information, refer to Chinese theology, Chinese astronomy and names of China.

Shenzhou consists of three modules: a forward orbital module (轨道舱), a reentry module (返回舱) in the middle, and an aft service module (推进舱). This division is based on the principle of minimizing the amount of material to be returned to Earth. Anything placed in the orbital or service modules does not require heat shielding, increasing the space available in the spacecraft without increasing weight as much as it would if those modules were also able to withstand reentry. The Shenzhou spacecrafts are:

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Tiangong space station

Rendering of Tiangong Space Station between October 2021 and March 2022, with Tianhe core module in the middle, Tianzhou-2 cargo spacecraft on the left, Tianzhou-3 cargo spacecraft on the right, and Shenzhou-13 crewed spacecraft at nadir

Tiangong (Chinese: 天宮; pinyin: Tiāngōng; lit. 'Palace in the Sky'), officially the Tiangong space station (Chinese: 天宫空间站), is a space station being constructed by China in low Earth orbit between 340 and 450 km (210 and 280 mi) above the surface. Being China's first long-term space station, it is the goal of the "Third Step" of the China Manned Space Program. Once completed, Tiangong will have a mass between 80 and 100 t (180,000 and 220,000 lb), roughly one-fifth the mass of the International Space Station and about the size of the decommissioned Russian Mir space station.

The construction of the station is based on the experience gained from its precursors, Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2. The first module, the Tianhe ("Harmony of the Heavens") core module, was launched on 29 April 2021, followed by multiple crewed and uncrewed missions and two more modules to be launched in 2022. Chinese leaders have expressed the hope that the research conducted on the station will improve researchers' ability to conduct science experiments in space, beyond the duration and capacity offered by China's existing space laboratories.

According to CMSA, which operates the space station, the purpose and mission of Tiangong is listed as: Further development of spacecraft rendezvous technology; Breakthrough in key technologies such as permanent human operations in orbit, long-term autonomous spaceflight of the space station, regenerative life support technology, and autonomous cargo and fuel supply technology; Test of next-generation orbit transportation vehicles; Scientific and practical applications at large-scale in orbit; Development of technology that can aid future deep space exploration. In addition, private sector commercial activities being encouraged, according to the designer of China's human spaceflight program: “When our space station is completed and running, we will actively encourage the private sector to engage in space through various ways.” “We hope there will be competitive, cost-efficient commercial space players to participate in areas including space applications and space resource development.” Operations will be controlled from the Beijing Aerospace Flight Control Center in China. To guarantee the safety of astronauts on board, a Long March 2F with a Shenzhou spacecraft will always be on standby for an emergency rescue mission.

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China's Space Station Will Be Open to Science from All UN Nations
3D illustration of Tiangong, the Chinese space station, orbiting Earth, with Earth in the background. (Image credit: Getty Images)

China is working with the United Nations to help arrange scientific experiments aboard that country's space station.

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and China's Manned Space Agency have invited applications from UN member states to conduct experiments on China's space station (CSS). In 2016, the two signed a memorandum of understanding to work together to develop the space capabilities of UN member states via opportunities to use the station, which China expects to be operational by 2022. [Gallery: Tiangong 1, China's First Space Laboratory]

The "announcement of opportunity" and application instructions for this initiative were released at a ceremony hosted by UNOOSA and the Permanent Mission of China to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Vienna on Monday (May 28).

related: China's Tiangong space station

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Full coverage:

Watch how taikonauts live in China's space station

How are taikonauts exercising inside space station?

Check out how taikonauts wash their hair in space

Chinese taikonauts enjoy food in China's Space Station

Working in space: China's space robotic arm

Taikonauts live in China's space station

China's first space station core module Tianhe

China launches Tianhe module to Tiangong space station

Rendering of Tianhe core module with the robotic arm at docking position

Tianhe (Chinese: 天和; pinyin: Tiānhé; lit. 'Harmony of the Heavens'), officially the Tianhe core module (Chinese: 天和核心舱), is the first module to launch of the Tiangong space station. It was launched into orbit on 29 April 2021, as the first launch of the final phase of Tiangong program, part of the China Manned Space Program (Project 921).

Tianhe follows in the footsteps of Salyut, Skylab, Mir, International Space Station, Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2 space stations. It is the first module of a third-generation Chinese modular space station. Other examples of modular station projects include the Soviet/Russian Mir, Russian OPSEK, and the International Space Station. Operations will be controlled from the Beijing Aerospace Flight Control Center.

In 2018, a fullscale mockup of Tianhe was publicly presented at China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. In October 2020, China selected 18 new astronauts ahead of the space station construction to participate in the country's space station project.

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China launches Manned Spacecraft Shenzhou-14

China's Yutu II spots 'mystery hut' on far side of the moon

Chinese astronauts return after 90-day mission

China launches first crewed mission to Tiangong space station

China launches Tianhe module to Tiangong space station

China’s Tianwen-1 spacecraft completes historic Mars landing

China's forefront of global space race

China’s Quantum Satellite

China plans to tap the Sun’s boundless energy

China's Chang’e 4 spacecraft touches down on dark side of moon

China Looks to Build New Powerful Rocket

China launches Manned Spacecraft Shenzhou-11

China launches Tiangong-2 space lab

China Joins Ranks of Moon Explorers

16/06/2021

Laos "The Village above the Clouds"

The Akha tribe in Laos: Between tradition and modernity

15/06/2021

Top 7 Tips To Keep Your House Safe When You’re Away

We all like to get away sometimes, even if the opportunities have been few and far between over the last 12 months! Despite the joy of a holiday, leaving home can also be a source of anxiety for many people. That’s particularly true at popular traveling times, when there’s an expectation that many houses might be left empty.

And while fewer people might be able to travel this Chinese New Year than in the past due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for CNY celebration under the Movement Control Order (MCO) 2.0, this is still an important area of concern. Nevertheless, we all want to trust our properties are safe and protected while we are away. After all, your home is a place that should always offer peace of mind. Luckily, there are some valuable tips, technologies, and techniques which can help make your home safer while you’re away.

Here are 7 key home safety tips to keep your house safe in CNY and beyond:

Appreciate The Value Of Neighbours
Sound The Alarm
Tune In To CCTV
Cancel Deliveries If You’re Away
Make Sure Your Social Is Secure
Do ‘The Check’
Check The Insurance

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14/06/2021

Singapore back to Phase 3 (Heightened Alert) from 14 Jun 2021

Singapore enters Phase 3 (Heightened Alert) on Jun 14

Update 22 Jul 2021: Singapore Back to Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) from 22 Jul 2021

Back to Phase 2 Heightened Alert from 22 July 2021

The Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) has announced the reversion to Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) measures which will take effect from 22 July to 18 August (both dates inclusive). This is done to contain the growing COVID-19 clusters linked to the Jurong Fishery Port, as we push ahead with the vaccination of individuals.

These measures will supersede those that were introduced on 19 July 2021:

Reduction of social gathering group sizes from a maximum of 5 persons to a maximum of 2 persons, with a cap of 2 distinct visitors per household per day. Grandchildren being cared for daily by their grandparents will be not be counted towards this cap.
Work-from-home to remain the default at workplaces. Employers who need staff to return to workplaces need to ensure no cross-deployment at various worksites, and enforce staggered start times and flexible working hours. Social gatherings at workplaces will not be allowed.
Cessation of dine-in at all F&B establishments (including hawker centres and food courts), with only takeaway and delivery options allowed. All staff at such establishments must continue with regular 14-day Fast and Easy Test (FET) requirement, which will remain free-of-charge during this period.
Cessation of all strenuous indoor exercise classes, including individuals and group indoor sports and exercise activities.
Mask-off personalised services (e.g. facials, saunas, make-up services) will not be allowed. This will not apply to medical and dental consultations that require patients to remove their masks.
Reduction of event sizes and event size caps, with mandatory pre-event testing (PET) for some cases. Playing of wind or brass instruments will not be allowed.

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162 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, 87 linked to Jurong Fishery Port

Singapore reported 162 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Thursday (Jul 22), including 87 cases linked to the Jurong Fishery Port cluster and five to the cluster in KTV lounges.

There were also 8 imported infections, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 170 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported a total of 63,791 COVID-19 cases.

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Vaccinated people in Singapore make up three-quarters of recent COVID-19 cases

Three quarters of Singapore's COVID-19 infections in the last four weeks were among vaccinated individuals, government data shows, as a rapid ramp-up in the city state's inoculations leaves fewer people unvaccinated.

Singapore has already inoculated nearly 75% of its 5.7 million people, the world's second highest after the United Arab Emirates, a Reuters tracker shows, and half its population is fully vaccinated. It reported 1,096 locally transmitted cases in the last 28 days, of which 484, or 44%, were fully vaccinated people, while 30% were partially vaccinated and the remaining 25% were unvaccinated.

There were only seven severe cases requiring oxygen support and six of them were unvaccinated and one was partially vaccinated, the health ministry said.

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179 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, 138 linked to Jurong Fishery Port and KTV clusters

Singapore reported 179 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Wednesday (Jul 21), with 130 cases linked to the Jurong Fishery Port cluster and eight belonging to the KTV lounges cluster.

There were also two imported infections, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, there were 181 new cases of COVID-19 in Singapore.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 63,621 COVID-19 cases.

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182 new local COVID-19 cases in Singapore; Haig Road and Chong Pang markets closed after 35 infections detected

Singapore reported 182 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Tuesday (Jul 20), with 142 cases linked to the Jurong Fishery Port cluster. This makes it the largest active cluster in Singapore, with 321 cases in all, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) in its nightly update.

There were also 13 imported infections, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 195 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 63,440 COVID-19 cases.

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163 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, 125 linked to Jurong Fishery Port and KTV clusters

Singapore reported 163 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases as of noon on Monday (Jul 19), with 106 infections linked to the Jurong Fishery Port cluster and 19 cases with links to the KTV lounges cluster.

There were also nine imported cases, who were all placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 172 new cases of COVID-19.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported a total of 63,245 COVID-19 cases.

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Singapore reports 11-month high of 163 local COVID-19 cases

Singapore's health ministry reported on Monday 163 new locally-transmitted coronavirus cases, the highest daily tally in 11 months, driven by growing clusters of infections linked to a fishery port and karaoke bars.

The numbers are a rise from Sunday's 88 local cases.

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88 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, 60 linked to KTV and Jurong Fishery Port clusters

Singapore reported 88 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases as of noon on Sunday (Jul 18), with 60 infections linked to clusters in KTV lounges and Jurong Fishery Port.

There were also four imported cases, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 92 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, the highest daily total since Aug 28 last year, where 94 cases were reported.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported a total of 63,073 COVID-19 cases and 36 deaths from the disease.

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60 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 29 linked to KTV cluster

Singapore reported 60 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases as of noon on Saturday (Jul 17), of which 29 belonged to the KTV cluster. There are now a total of 149 cases linked to the KTV cluster.

There were also eight imported cases, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. One of these infections was detected upon arrival in Singapore, while 7 developed the illness during their stay-home notice or isolation, said MOH. In total, Singapore reported 68 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Saturday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,981 COVID-19 cases.

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Singapore reports 53 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, including 32 linked to KTV cluster

Singapore reported 53 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Friday (Jul 16), of which 32 belong to a KTV cluster. There are now a total of 120 cases linked to the KTV cluster.

There were also eight imported cases, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. Two were detected upon arrival in Singapore while six developed the illness during stay-home notice or isolation. In total, Singapore reported 61 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Friday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,913 COVID-19 cases.

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20 foreign women arrested for suspected involvement in vice activities at 3 KTV lounges

Cases at 10-month high: 20 women linked to KTV lounges arrested

Twenty women of South Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese nationalities have been arrested for suspected involvement in vice-related activities at three KTV lounges operating as food and beverage outlets.

This followed an enforcement blitz conducted in South Bridge Road, Selegie Road and Geylang Road on Tuesday (July 13). The women are between the ages of 20 and 34, police said in a statement on Wednesday.

They will be investigated for offences under the Women's Charter, the Immigration Act, and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act.

KTV Covid-19 cluster grows to 54 after 1 more case linked

42 new Covid-19 cases in S'pore linked to KTV cluster

Emerging KTV Covid-19 cluster involves Vietnamese hostesses

KTV Covid-19 cluster: Nightlife businesses reminded to be vigilant

Emerging KTV cluster: ST journalist speaks to shopkeepers at Tanglin

Cases at 10-month high: 20 women linked to KTV lounges arrested

42 new locally transmitted Covid-19 cases, including 33 linked to KTV cluster

Confidential Covid-19 tests for those who visited KTV lounges

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Singapore reports 42 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, including 33 linked to KTV cluster

Singapore reported 42 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Thursday (Jul 15), of which 33 belong to a KTV cluster. There are now 87 cases linked to the KTV cluster.

There were also six imported cases, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 48 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,852 COVID-19 cases.

42 new COVID-19 cases linked to KTV cluster; situation ‘troubling & disappointing’

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56 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore; KTV lounge cluster grows to 53 infections

Singapore reported 56 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Wednesday (Jul 14), of which 41 belong to a KTV lounge cluster. The cluster has now grown to a total of 53 cases, up from just 12 on Tuesday.

There were also four imported cases, who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 60 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,804 COVID-19 cases.

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19 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, 8 linked to emerging KTV cluster

Singapore reported 19 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Tuesday (Jul 13), of which eight belong to an emerging KTV cluster. This is the highest number of locally transmitted cases since Jun 17, when 20 infections were reported.

There were also seven new imported cases who had all been placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 26 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,744 COVID-19 cases.

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8 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 3 unlinked

Singapore reported eight new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Monday (Jul 12), including three unlinked cases. This is the highest number of local cases since Jun 27, when 12 infections were reported.

There were also 18 new imported cases who were all placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. This is the highest number of imported infections since May 14 when there were 28 cases. In total, Singapore reported 26 new COVID-19.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,718 COVID-19 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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1 new locally transmitted COVID-19 case in Singapore, 7 imported infections

Singapore reported one new locally transmitted COVID-19 infection as of noon on Sunday (Jul 11).

There were also seven imported cases, all of which were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported eight new COVID-19 cases.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,692 COVID-19 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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No new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore; 6 imported infections

Singapore reported no new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases on Saturday (Jul 10).

This is the first time that Singapore reported no new locally transmitted cases since Apr 25, when no COVID-19 cases were identified in the community or migrant workers' dormitories.

There were six imported cases who were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said in its preliminary daily update. This is the lowest overall number of total daily cases reported in Singapore since Jun 9 when four infections were identified.

As of Saturday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,684 COVID-19 cases.

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1 new locally transmitted COVID-19 case in Singapore; 9 imported infections

Singapore reported one new locally transmitted COVID-19 infection as of noon on Friday (Jul 9).

There were also nine imported cases, all of which were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 10 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Friday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,678 COVID-19 cases.

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3 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 2 unlinked

Singapore reported three new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Thursday (Jul 8), including two with no links to previous cases.

There were also 13 imported cases, all of which were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 16 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,668 COVID-19 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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5 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections in Singapore, including 2 unlinked

Singapore reported five new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Wednesday (Jul 7), including two unlinked cases.

There were also seven imported cases, all of which were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 12 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,652 COVID-19 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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2 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections in Singapore; both unlinked

Singapore reported two new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Tuesday (Jul 6), both of which were currently unlinked.

There were also eight imported cases, all of which were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said in its daily preliminary update. In total, Singapore reported 10 new cases of COVID-19.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,640 COVID-19 cases.

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6 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections in Singapore; 2 unlinked

Singapore reported six new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Monday (Jul 5), including two unlinked cases.

There were also seven imported cases, all of whom were placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In total, Singapore reported 13 new cases of COVID-19.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,630 COVID-19 cases.

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1 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infection in Singapore; 10 imported cases

Singapore reported one new locally transmitted COVID-19 infection as of noon on Sunday (Jul 4). This is the lowest figure for locally transmitted infections since May 5, when 1 community case was reported.

There were also 10 imported cases, all of which had been placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival. In all, Singapore reported 11 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,617 cases and 36 deaths from COVID-19.

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4 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections in Singapore, all linked to previous cases

Singapore reported four new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Saturday (Jul 3), all links to previous cases.

There were also three imported cases who have been placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said in its preliminary daily update. In all, Singapore reported seven new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, the lowest daily case count since Jun 9.

As of Saturday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,606 cases and 36 deaths from COVID-19.

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3 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 1 unlinked

Singapore reported three new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Friday (Jul 2), including one with no links to previous cases.

There were also seven imported cases, all of which had been placed on stay-home notice or isolated. In all, Singapore reported 10 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Friday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,599 cases and 36 deaths from COVID-19.

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4 new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections in Singapore, all linked to previous cases

Singapore reported four new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Thursday (Jul 1), all linked to previous cases.

There were also six imported cases, all of which had been placed on stay-home notice or isolated. In all, Singapore reported 10 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,589 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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5 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases in Singapore, all linked

Singapore reported five new locally transmitted COVID-19 infections as of noon on Wednesday (Jun 30), all linked to previous cases.

There were also 11 imported cases who were all placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival in Singapore. In all, Singapore reported 16 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,579 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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5 new COVID-19 locally transmitted cases in Singapore, all linked to previous infections

Singapore reported five new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases as of noon on Tuesday (Jun 29), all of whom were linked to previous cases.

There were also five imported cases, all of whom had been placed on stay-home notice or isolated upon arrival in Singapore. In all, Singapore reported 10 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,563 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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4 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, all linked

Singapore reported four new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Monday (Jun 28), all of which were linked to previous cases.

There were also five imported cases, no new infections were reported in migrant workers' dormitories. In all, Singapore reported nine new COVID-19 cases.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,553 COVID-19 cases and 36 fatalities from the disease.

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12 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including 1 unlinked

Singapore reported 12 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Sunday (Jun 27), including one with no links to previous cases.

There were also two imported cases, no new infections were reported in migrant workers' dormitories. In all, Singapore reported 14 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,544 COVID-19 cases and 36 deaths.

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13 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 6 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 13 new COVID-19 infections in the community as of noon on Saturday (Jun 26), including four with no links to previous cases.

An 84-year-old Singaporean woman died on Saturday from complications due to COVID-19, becoming the 36th fatality in Singapore. There were also four imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 17 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday.

As of Saturday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,530 COVID-19 cases and 36 deaths.

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15 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including 3 unlinked

Singapore reported 15 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Friday (Jun 25), including three with no links to previous cases.

There were also five imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 20 new COVID-19 cases on Friday.

As of Friday, Singapore has reported 62,513 COVID-19 cases and 35 fatalities.

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14 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including 2 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 14 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Thursday (Jun 24), including two with no links to previous cases.

There were also nine imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 23 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported 62,493 COVID-19 cases.

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13 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including 3 unlinked

Singapore reported 13 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Wednesday (Jun 23), including three with no links to previous cases.

There were also nine imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 22 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,470 COVID-19 cases.

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15 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 5 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 15 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Tuesday (Jun 22), including five with no links to previous cases.

There were also three imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 18 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,448 COVID-19 cases and 35 fatalities from the disease.

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13 COVID-19 community cases in Singapore and 1 death

Singapore reported 13 new COVID-19 cases in the community on Monday (Jun 21), as well as one death.

There were also three imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 16 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,430 COVID-19 cases and 35 fatalities from the disease.

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9 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 5 unlinked infections

Singapore reported nine new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Sunday (Jun 20), including five with no links to previous cases.

There were also two imported cases.. In all, 11 new COVID-19 cases were reported.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,414 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities from the disease.

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5 new COVID-19 cases linked to Bukit Merah View cluster, bringing total tally to 70 infections

Five new community COVID-19 cases reported in Singapore on Saturday (Jun 19) were linked to the Bukit Merah View Market and Food Centre cluster, bringing the size of the cluster to 70 infections.

There were also seven imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 21 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Saturday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,403 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities from the disease.

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14 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including 4 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 14 new COVID-19 infections in the community as of noon on Friday (Jun 18), including four with no links to previous cases.

There were also two imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 16 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Friday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,382 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities from the disease.

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20 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 2 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 20 new COVID-19 infections in the community as of noon on Thursday (Jun 17), including two with no links to previous cases.

There were also seven imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 27 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Thursday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,366 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities from the disease.

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19 new COVID-19 community cases in Singapore, including three unlinked

Singapore reported 19 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Wednesday (Jun 16), including three with no links to previous cases.

There were also five imported cases. In all, Singapore reported 24 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Wednesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,339 COVID-19 cases.

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14 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, including 5 unlinked infections

Singapore reported 14 new COVID-19 infections in the community as of noon on Tuesday (Jun 15), including five with no links to previous cases.

Nine infections were linked to previous cases, said the Ministry of Health (MOH) in its preliminary daily update. Of these, five cases had already been placed on quarantine and four were detected through surveillance testing.

As of Tuesday, Singapore has reported a total of 62,315 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities from the disease.

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S'pore to ease Covid-19 curbs in 2 phases from June 14

Covid-19 rules to gradually ease under phase 3 (heightened alert)

Tighter measures currently in place to reduce the spread of Covid-19 will be eased progressively from next Monday (June 14).

In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said Singapore will gradually reopen and move to phase three (heightened alert) in two steps.

Here are the key announcements:

Cap on social gatherings to be raised from two people to five from June 14
Event size and capacity limits to be raised from June 14
Dining in only from June 21
Gyms, sports and tuition classes to resume from June 21
Working from home remains the default; targeted support measures to continue
Regular testing for staff in higher-risk activities and sale of self-test kits
Vaccination bookings for those aged 12 to 39 to begin on June 11

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18 new community COVID-19 cases in Singapore, highest in more than 10 days

Singapore reported 18 new COVID-19 cases in the community and one new case in migrant workers' dormitories as of noon on Monday (Jun 14).

This is the highest daily number of locally transmitted infections reported in Singapore since Jun 3, when 35 community cases were reported. In all, Singapore reported 25 new COVID-19 infections.

As of Monday, Singapore has reported 62,301 COVID-19 cases and 34 fatalities.

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Phase 3 (Heightened Alert)

Singapore back to phase 2 from 8 May 2021

Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) from May 16, 2021 to Jun 13, 2021

Singapore reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in the community as of noon on Sunday (Jun 13), including two unlinked infections.

Eight were linked to previous cases, with five already in quarantine and three detected through surveillance, said the Ministry of Health (MOH), in its daily preliminary update. In all, Singapore reported 13 new COVID-19 cases.

As of Sunday, Singapore has reported 62,276 COVID-19 cases.

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Coronavirus was likely present in US from December 2019: Study

A new antibody testing study published on Tuesday (June 15) has found further evidence that the coronavirus was present in the United States from at least December 2019, weeks before the first confirmed case was announced on Jan 21.

The National Institutes of Health study analysed 24,000 stored blood samples contributed by volunteers across the country from Jan 2 to March 18, 2020.

Antibodies against the Sars-CoV-2 virus were detected via two different serology tests in nine patient samples, according to the paper, which was published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases.

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Singapore approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Sinovac: A look at three key COVID-19 vaccines

By the end of this week, people in the country worst-hit by COVID-19 could gain access to a second COVID-19 vaccine. On Tuesday (Dec 15), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endorsed mRNA-1273 - the vaccine candidate made by American biotechnology company Moderna - as safe and effective. Singapore has also approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, with the first shipment expected by the end of the year. A third COVID-19 vaccine, developed by China's Sinovac Biotech, is also currently in late-stage trials. Indonesia already has 1.2 million doses of CoronaVac, the vaccine it has been testing since August. Here’s a look at how the three COVID-19 vaccines differ:

PFIZER-BIONTECH (Type: mRNA) - The COVID-19 vaccine developed by US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer and Germany’s BioNTech was the first COVID-19 vaccine to be approved by the US FDA for emergency use. How it works: The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. mRNA vaccines teach our cells to make a protein that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. This is different from traditional vaccines which put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies.
MODERNA (Type: mRNA) - The initial results from Moderna's vaccine were described a month ago by the US' leading expert on infectious diseases Anthony Fauci as "stunningly impressive". How it works: Just like the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the Moderna vaccine uses mRNA technology.
SINOVAC (Type: Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus) - Developed by China's Sinovac Biotech, the vaccine, known as CoronaVac, is currently undergoing phase 3 clinical trials in places such as Brazil and Indonesia. How it works: Sinovac's vaccine uses inactivated vaccine technology, which utilises virus particles that have been killed to stimulate our bodies to produce an immune response. This vaccine is similar to the flu vaccine.

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Singapore confirms first case of Wuhan virus on 23 Jan 2020

Guests at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa yesterday. A man from China who is the first to test positive for the Wuhan virus in Singapore had stayed at the resort, said the Health Ministry. ST PHOTO: TIMOTHY DAVID

A China national has tested positive for the Wuhan virus in Singapore, with another likely to have the virus.

The 66-year-old man, a Wuhan resident, arrived in Singapore with nine travelling companions on Monday (Jan 20), and stayed at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa resort, the Ministry of Health said at a briefing on Thursday night (23 Jan 2020).

All the rooms at the hotel where the man and his travelling companions stayed in have been sanitised and sealed off.

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COVID-19 infections in Singapore: