China’s new astronaut group begins lunar mission training in Beijing

China’s fourth generation of astronauts, recently selected, began their extensive training program in Beijing in August, as confirmed by Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of China’s Manned Space Agency. The ten new recruits include two astronauts from Hong Kong and Macau, adding regional diversity to the group.

Structured training for manned lunar exploration

The training process for these astronauts is thorough and includes physical training sessions, lectures on human spaceflight and cultural activities designed to help them transition smoothly into their roles. This preparation aims to promote team integration and resilience of the students. In addition, the astronauts will undergo more than 200 training programs in eight different categories, covering crucial lunar surface operations required for China’s ambitious human lunar exploration plans.

Targeted training for Hong Kong and Macau representatives

According to one report According to China Daily, the astronaut cohort includes representatives from Hong Kong and Macau. Since arriving at the China Astronaut Center on August 8, these two recruits have participated in specialized sessions on topics such as the history of China’s space program and language training in Mandarin. Lin noted that both have shown high enthusiasm and are integrating well into the team.

Unique selection process for fourth-generation astronauts

The recent astronaut selection process, initiated in October 2022, concluded in June this year with a diverse group of ten astronauts: eight are spacecraft pilots, while two are science payload specialists specifically chosen from Hong Kong and Macau. According to head trainer Huang Weifen, this group includes pilots from the PLA Ground Force and Navy, marking a departure from previous selection criteria, which previously focused solely on Air Force pilots.