China has awarded the astronauts of the Shenzhou-18 mission with prestigious medals for their outstanding contributions to the nation's space endeavors. On Thursday, Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu were honored for their remarkable achievements during the mission.
Ye Guangfu received a second-class aerospace achievement medal, adding to his previous honor as a \"Heroic Astronaut\" in 2022. As the crew commander, this mission marked his second journey to China's space station. With a cumulative time of over a year in orbit, Ye has become the first Chinese astronaut to achieve this milestone.
Li Cong and Li Guangsu were each bestowed with third-class aerospace achievement medals and the honorary title of \"Heroic Astronaut.\" Shenzhou-18 was their inaugural spaceflight. Li Cong, the youngest member of the crew, excelled in 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.
The decision to award the astronauts was made by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, reflecting the high regard for their contributions to China's space program.
Launched on April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-18 mission was a landmark in China's space exploration efforts. Over 192 days in orbit—a new record for a Chinese crew—the trio conducted two extravehicular activities and carried out nearly 100 space science experiments and in-orbit application payload tests.
The astronauts returned safely to Earth on November 4, 2024, after their extensive mission aboard China's space station. Their successful mission has been hailed as a significant step forward in the nation's ambitious space exploration agenda.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
