China's first manned spacecraft the Shenzhou Five is to be launched as scheduled despite worries about the SARS epidemic.

Chief designers and directors of the mission gathered in Beijing Friday to discuss preparations for the manned space-trip.

It was announced at the meeting that preparations for the trip have entered a crucial period, and related departments have taken strict measures to ensure the safety of the whole process.

Researchers and technicians are currently accelerating development and manufacturing of the Shenzhou spacecraft and Long March Two carrier. Training of the astronauts is going on smoothly, and other tests on the appliance system are being carried out.

(People's Daily May 10, 2003)