The Shenzhou-21 astronauts, currently residing on China's space station, shared heartfelt Lunar New Year greetings in a video broadcast to Earth on February 16, 2026. Commander Zhang Lu and crew members Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang marked the occasion with traditional red couplets and the character 福 (fu) adorning their orbital home—the fourth Spring Festival celebrated aboard the station since its operational completion.
"As the Chinese New Year arrives, I wish everyone success in all things and peace and safety," said Zhang Lu, who is spending his second consecutive Lunar New Year in space. Rookie astronaut Wu Fei added, "I wish all dream-chasers smooth journeys and prosperity," while Zhang Hongzhang called the experience "the most precious" of his career, vowing to "write a new chapter among the stars" in 2026.
Since their October 31, 2025 launch, the crew has conducted over 100 days of scientific experiments, equipment maintenance, and health monitoring. Mission controllers confirmed all operations remain on schedule, underscoring China's growing capabilities in long-term space habitation.
