China has honored the three astronauts of its Shenzhou-18 mission—Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu—with prestigious medals for their remarkable contributions to the nation's space endeavors.
On Thursday, Ye Guangfu received a second-class aerospace achievement medal, while Li Cong and Li Guangsu were awarded third-class aerospace achievement medals along with the honorary title of \"Heroic Astronaut.\" Ye, a seasoned astronaut, had previously been bestowed with the \"Heroic Astronaut\" title in 2022.
The accolades were conferred by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, reflecting the high esteem in which the astronauts are held for advancing China's space exploration.
Launched on April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-18 crewed spaceship marked Ye's second journey to China's space station. As the mission's commander, he spent approximately six months aboard the station. Combined with his six-month stay during the Shenzhou-13 mission, Ye has become China's first astronaut to have lived in orbit for over a year.
For Li Cong and Li Guangsu, Shenzhou-18 was their inaugural spaceflight. Li Cong, the youngest member of the crew, distinguished himself by proficiently completing all assigned tasks. Li Guangsu made a significant impact by successfully installing the first space debris protection device on the space station during his maiden spacewalk.
Throughout their mission, the trio conducted two extravehicular activities and carried out nearly 100 space science experiments and in-orbit application payload tests. Their work has significantly contributed to China's expanding body of space research and technological advancement.
After a record-breaking 192 days in orbit, the astronauts safely returned to Earth on November 4, 2024, setting a new national record for mission duration.
Their achievements not only exemplify individual excellence but also signify China's ongoing commitment to exploring the final frontier and its ambition to become a leading spacefaring nation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
