The Shenzhou-20 crew on board China's orbiting space station extended their greetings to children in celebration of the upcoming International Children's Day on June 1.
The crew, made up of Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie, shared reflections on their childhood aspirations as Young Pioneers to contribute to China’s space exploration. They expressed heartfelt hopes that today’s youth will pursue their education and actively play a role in the nation's progress.
The Chinese Young Pioneers (CYP) is a national mass organization for Chinese children.
"I still remember the first time I put on the [young pioneer's] red scarf. It was then that I made a silent vow to become someone who could contribute to society. That childhood dream has guided me through my journey in the aerospace field, and it's what has brought me to space today," said Chen Dong.
"Back when I was a young pioneer, I was fascinated by the blue sky and curious about what was beyond Earth. When China's first manned spacecraft, Shenzhou-5, was launched, I was thrilled, and it strengthened my determination. Today, I've finally realized my dream and am able to work aboard China's space station," said Chen Zhongrui.
"I have been remembering clearly the first line of the CYP anthem: 'We are the successors of communism.' This song has inspired generations of young pioneers to honor the legacy of our revolutionary predecessors, following in their footsteps with courage and striving toward our ideals. When I sang this as a child, it always filled me with a sense of strength. Today, I'm proud to be an astronaut, contributing to our country's space endeavors. In the future, I hope you, the younger generation, will carry the baton and help China's space exploration to take steadier and farther steps," said Wang Jie.
"This time, we brought the CYP flag to China's space station. We hope that you will always remember General Secretary Xi Jinping's words, and strive to grow into capable young people with sound moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility, and work skills who will fully develop socialism and carry forward the socialist cause. We believe you will take up the baton of history, starting by learning from the pioneers and growing into true pioneers, with the ambition to serve and strengthen our nation, and to be resolute and responsible strivers. Always be ready to contribute to the advancement of Chinese modernization," Chen Dong added.
"Happy Children's Day to all the children!" the crew chorused, as they waved a Chinese Young Pioneers flag.
The Shenzhou-20 manned spacecraft was successfully launched on April 24, 2025.
Shenzhou-20 crew sends video greetings from space to mark Children's Day
