Four spaceflights and over 201 cumulative days in orbit distinguish Jing Haipeng as a pivotal figure in the Chinese space program. Born in 1966 in the Yanhu District of Shanxi, he transitioned from a military pilot career into the elite ranks of the People's Liberation Army Astronaut Corps, consistently pushing the operational boundaries of China's human spaceflight missions.
Military Foundation and Education
Jing Haipeng followed an academic and professional trajectory rooted in technical military training. He attended the PLA Air Force Aviation University before furthering his education at Tsinghua University. As an officer within the People's Liberation Army Air Force, he reached the rank of major general, establishing a base in aviation as a fighter pilot before his selection as a candidate for the astronaut corps in 1998.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Early Missions: Shenzhou 7 and 9
His initial entry into orbital flight occurred on 25 September 2008, when he served as a member of the three-man crew for Shenzhou 7. This mission marked China's third human spaceflight. By 2012, he achieved a new milestone as the commander of Shenzhou 9. This flight represented the first crewed mission to dock with the Tiangong 1 space station, where he worked alongside Liu Yang and Liu Wang.
Extended Operations and Records
The Shenzhou 11 mission in October 2016 extended his operational capabilities, lasting 33 days and culminating in a landing in Inner Mongolia. This flight pushed his cumulative time in space to 47 days, setting a domestic record at the time. In 2023, he returned to space as commander of the Shenzhou 16 mission, staying for over 153 days. This fourth flight brought his total duration to more than 201 days, allowing him to briefly reclaim the Chinese record for time spent in orbit.
Recognition and Service
Jing's contributions to the Chinese aerospace program have earned him extensive state recognition. He is a multiple recipient of the Spaceflight Exploit Medal, having been awarded the honor in 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2024. In 2017, he received the August 1 Medal from Chairman Xi Jinping, and in 2018, he was named a Pioneer of Reform. Beyond his spaceflight duties, he currently serves as a vice-commander of the 82nd Group Army.
Fast facts
- Born: 1966, Yanhu District, Shanxi
- Citizenship: People's Republic of China
- Military Rank: Major General
- Education: Tsinghua University, PLA Air Force Aviation University
- Space Missions: Shenzhou 7, 9, 11, 16
- Cumulative Space Time: Over 201 days
- Key Awards: August 1 Medal, Pioneer of Reform
- Active Role: Vice-commander of the 82nd Group Army
Questions readers ask
How many times has Jing Haipeng been to space?
He has completed four separate missions: Shenzhou 7, 9, 11, and 16.
What is his highest military rank?
He holds the rank of major general in the People's Liberation Army.
Achievements
- Educated at Tsinghua University and PLA Air Force Aviation University
- Worked as astronaut, aircraft pilot and fighter pilot
