China's Shenzhou-21 crew shared insights on their historic mission at a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday, marking their first public appearance since returning to Earth in late May.
The three crew members - Zhang Lu, the mission commander, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang - completed a record-setting seven-month stay aboard China's space station, the longest stay for any Shenzhou crew to date.
During their mission, the crew experienced China's first emergency space station rescue, an event that Zhang Lu called unforgettable.
"We experienced and witnessed several historic firsts in China's manned space program: the first time a returning spacecraft was delayed by a collision with space debris, the first time an astronaut crew switched spacecraft to return to Earth, and the first emergency spacecraft launch. We saw up close how everyone in the mission, both on the ground and in space, worked as one during the emergency. This experience gave us an even deeper confidence in China's space program," he said.
The long mission also gave the astronauts a fresh perspective on Earth, according to Wu Fei.
"From space, you can't see national borders, and you just see a beautiful home that all of humanity needs to protect together. Spending 210 days in orbit really showcases the incredible capabilities of China's manned space program. That sense of pride was with us every day in space," said Wu.
Asked about how the crew maintained energy during such a long stay, Zhang Hongzhang shared some personal tips.
"People often ask me how I can stay so energetic for so long in orbit. I think ground support is the foundation, mutual support within the crew is the key, and self-adjustment is the secret," he said.
Zhang Hongzhang said that China's traditional culture is full of unique ways to both calm the mind and strengthen the body. He added that when it got late, he would quietly recite classical poetry and practice tai chi for a while, noting that even a short time was enough to reset himself and feel energized and ready to work again the next day.
China's Astronaut Research and Training Center reports that all three astronauts are in good physical and mental shape. Medical checks show their muscle strength, endurance, and cardiorespiratory function have essentially returned to preflight levels, and the crew is expected to resume normal work and training following their recovery period.
Shenzhou-21 crew share insights on historic mission after returning home from space mission
