China has honored the three astronauts of the Shenzhou-18 mission with prestigious medals for their outstanding contributions to the nation's space endeavors. In a ceremony on Thursday, Ye Guangfu was awarded a second-class aerospace achievement medal, while Li Cong and Li Guangsu received third-class aerospace achievement medals and the honorary title of \"Heroic Astronaut.\"
The decision was made by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, recognizing the astronauts' exceptional performance during the mission. Ye Guangfu, a veteran astronaut who previously received the \"Heroic Astronaut\" title in 2022, embarked on his second journey to China's space station with Shenzhou-18.
Launched on April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-18 mission marked a significant milestone in China's space exploration efforts. Ye Guangfu has now accumulated over a year living in orbit, becoming the country's first astronaut to achieve this feat after spending approximately six months aboard the space station during both the Shenzhou-13 and Shenzhou-18 missions.
For Li Cong and Li Guangsu, Shenzhou-18 was their maiden spaceflight. Li Cong, the youngest member of the crew, demonstrated exceptional skill by successfully completing all assigned tasks. Li Guangsu made history by installing the first space debris protection device on the space station during his inaugural spacewalk, enhancing the safety of the orbital facility.
Throughout their 192-day mission, which set a new national record for longest time spent in orbit, the crew conducted two extravehicular activities and carried out nearly 100 space science experiments and in-orbit application payload tests. Their efforts have significantly advanced China's capabilities in manned spaceflight and scientific research.
The Shenzhou-18 astronauts safely returned to Earth on November 4, 2024, concluding a mission that not only showcased their dedication and expertise but also underscored China's growing role in global space exploration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
