Image Credit: China Daily
On Friday, three astronauts from the Shenzhou-17 crewed mission were awarded medals for their contributions to China’s space program. Tang Hongbo received a second-class aerospace achievement medal, while Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin were bestowed with third-class medals and the honorary title of “heroic astronauts.” The awards were presented by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission.
Tang Hongbo, who served as the crew commander, was honored for his second journey to the space station. Speaking at a recent press conference, Tang expressed his pride in witnessing and contributing to the significant progress of China’s manned spaceflights.
Tang Shengjie, the youngest astronaut to enter China’s space station, celebrated his 34th birthday during his inaugural spaceflight. Jiang Xinlin assigned the critical role of chief operator for extravehicular maintenance activities, completed the tasks assigned to him.
The Shenzhou-17 manned spaceship was launched on October 26, 2023. The trio returned to Earth on April 30, 2024, after spending a record-breaking 187 days in orbit, surpassing the duration of previous crews. During their mission, the astronauts conducted two extravehicular activities and approximately 100 space application experiments and tests.
These awards highlight China’s ongoing commitment to advancing its space program. The recognition of these astronauts underscores their crucial roles in ensuring the success of the mission and in furthering China’s presence in space exploration.