The ground search and rescue team has reached a site 18 kilometers away from the "theoretical landing site" of the return capsule that is due to land the three-member crew on Shenzhou 9 spacecraft Friday.

Personnel and equipment responsible for air search and rescue is also ready for the mission, according to the Beijing Aerospace Control Center.

The Shenzhou 9 manned spacecraft will return to Earth around 10 a.m. Beijing Time Friday.