China was to launch its longest-ever space mission on Tuesday, with its second woman astronaut among the crew, as it steps up its ambitious space programme, a symbol of the country's growing power. The Shenzhou-10 -- the name means "Divine Vessel" -- was due to lift off at 0938 GMT from the Jiuquan launch centre in the Gobi desert. The three astronauts on board, including Wang Yaqing, 33, who trained as an air force transport pilot, are scheduled to spend 15 days in space, programme spokeswoman Wu Ping said.

China is to send its second woman astronaut into orbit on its longest mission yet, space officials said Monday, as the country works towards building a space station. The Shenzhou-10 -- the name means "Divine Vessel" -- will be launched on a Long March rocket at 0938 GMT Tuesday, Wu Ping, spokeswoman for China's manned space programme, told a news conference. The crew will be in orbit for 15 days, she said, and will include Wang Yaping, the second woman China has sent into space.

Following is a summary of current science news briefs. Veteran explorer stakes Russia's claim over the Arctic

Following is a summary of current science news briefs. Balloon-like dwelling to be tested on Int'l Space Station LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - A low-cost space dwelling that inflates like a balloon in orbit will be tested aboard the International Space Station, opening the door for commercial leases of future free-flying outposts and deep-space astronaut habitats for NASA. The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module, nicknamed BEAM, will be the third orbital prototype developed and flown by privately owned Bigelow Aerospace.