Li Guangsu served as the system operator for the Shenzhou 18 mission, which launched on 24 April 2024 and successfully docked with the Tiangong space station. This deployment marked a significant milestone in his career as a fighter pilot and member of the People's Liberation Army Astronaut Corps, culminating in a 192-day mission that concluded in November 2024.
Early Career and Military Service
Born in July 1987 in the town of Huzhai, Pei County, Jiangsu, Li Guangsu pursued a career in aviation early in his adult life. He applied for the People's Liberation Army Air Force Aviation University in 2005 and successfully graduated from the institution. His formal military career began in September 2006 when he enlisted in the People's Liberation Army. In June 2011, he became a member of the Chinese Communist Party. Before his selection as an astronaut, he served as a lieutenant colonel within a flying brigade of the Air Force Aviation Brigade, where he held the classification of first-class pilot.
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In May 2018, Li participated in the national astronaut selection process. His performance during these assessments led to his induction into the People's Liberation Army Astronaut Corps in September 2020, where he was categorized as a fourth-grade astronaut. This transition from atmospheric flight to orbital operations prepared him for the responsibilities associated with the Shenzhou program.
Shenzhou 18 Mission
As the system operator for Shenzhou 18, Li Guangsu was tasked with critical operations aboard the Tiangong space station. Following the launch in April 2024, the crew integrated into the station's ongoing research activities. Li's time in orbit spanned 192 days, ending with a return to Earth on 3 November 2024. For his contributions to space exploration, he has been awarded the Spaceflight Exploit Medal.
Fast facts
- Born: July 1987, Huzhai, Pei County, Jiangsu
- Citizenship: People's Republic of China
- Military Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Enlistment: September 2006
- Astronaut Selection: September 2020
- Mission: Shenzhou 18
- Time in Space: 192 days
- Award: Spaceflight Exploit Medal
Questions readers ask
What role did Li Guangsu play in the Shenzhou 18 mission?
He served as the system operator.
How long did Li Guangsu spend in space during his 2024 mission?
He spent 192 days in space, returning on 3 November 2024.
Achievements
- Worked as astronaut and fighter pilot
