China's Shenzhou-20 astronauts, Chen Dong, Chen Zhangrui, and Wang Jie, addressed international media in Beijing on Wednesday, marking their first public appearance following the completion of their landmark space mission. The event offered a rare glimpse into China's rapidly advancing space program and its aspirations for global collaboration.
Dressed in iconic blue flight suits, the three astronauts recounted their six-month mission aboard the Tiangong Space Station, highlighting breakthroughs in biological experiments and orbital research. Chen Dong, mission commander, emphasized the crew’s pride in contributing to the Chinese mainland's space ambitions. "Our work lays the foundation for deeper exploration, including future lunar missions," he remarked.
When asked about international partnerships, Wang Jie noted growing interest from countries and regions, including scientists from Hong Kong and residents of the island of Taiwan. The briefing also underscored China’s commitment to transparency, with officials confirming plans to expand the Tiangong Space Station’s international research modules by 2026.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang, in a prerecorded message, praised the mission as a "milestone in humanity’s shared journey to unlock the cosmos." Analysts suggest the briefing aligns with broader efforts to position China as a key player in shaping global space policy and economic opportunities.
The event drew over 200 journalists from 40 countries and regions, reflecting worldwide interest in Asia's expanding role in space exploration. As night fell over Beijing, crowds gathered outside the press center, with livestreams of the briefing projected on public screens—an ode to public enthusiasm for the nation's celestial pursuits.
