On 17 December 2024, Song Lingdong participated in an extravehicular activity that lasted nine hours and six minutes, establishing a new record for the longest spacewalk in human history. Operating outside the Tiangong space station, he performed critical maintenance tasks alongside Cai Xuzhe, marking a significant milestone for the Shenzhou program and the Chinese People's Liberation Army Astronaut Corps.
Early Career and Military Service
Born in Cao County, Shandong, in August 1990, Song entered the Air Force Aviation University in 2007. He officially enlisted in the People's Liberation Army in September 2008 and became a member of the Chinese Communist Party in March 2013. Before his selection as a taikonaut, he served as a fighter pilot in the Chinese air force.
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Song Lingdong was assigned to the Shenzhou 19 crewed spaceflight mission on 29 October 2024. He served alongside fellow crew members Cai Xuzhe and Wang Haoze. This mission, part of China's ongoing efforts to maintain a permanent presence in orbit, provided the opportunity for his record-breaking spacewalk.
Operations in Orbit
During his December 2024 extravehicular activity, Song relied on the support of the Tiangong space station's robotic arms and guidance from ground-based scientific personnel. His primary objectives included the installation of space debris protection devices, as well as the routine inspection and maintenance of external equipment and facility hardware.
Awards and Status
In recognition of his contributions to the national space program, he has been awarded the Spaceflight Exploit Medal. Holding the military rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Song remains an active participant in the Chinese astronaut program, with his professional career continuing to evolve as part of the country's space exploration initiatives.
Fast facts
- Born: 1990, Cao County, Shandong
- Nationality: People's Republic of China
- Military Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Selected Unit: People's Liberation Army Astronaut Corps
- Key Mission: Shenzhou 19
- Record: Longest spacewalk in human history (9 hours, 6 minutes)
- Award: Spaceflight Exploit Medal
Questions readers ask
What specific tasks did Song perform during his record-breaking spacewalk?
He installed space debris protection devices and conducted maintenance and inspections of external space station facilities.
What military branch did Song serve in before becoming an astronaut?
He served as a fighter pilot in the People's Liberation Army.
Achievements
- Spaceflight Exploit Medal
- Recorded as astronaut and fighter pilot
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