The Shenzhou 5 mission launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on 15 October 2003, carrying Yang Liwei into orbit. This flight established the People's Republic of China as the third nation capable of independent human spaceflight. Yang remained in space for 21 hours, 22 minutes, and 45 seconds, completing 14 orbits before landing in Inner Mongolia.
Early Career and Training
Born in 1965 in Suizhong County, Yang Liwei entered the People's Liberation Army in 1983. He studied at the PLA Air Force Aviation University, graduating in 1987. Before his transition to space exploration, he served as a fighter pilot, accumulating 1,350 flight hours. In 1996, he began the screening process for the Chinese astronaut program and was officially selected as a candidate in 1998.
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During the ascent of the Long March 2F rocket, Yang reported significant vibrations, which prompted design modifications for future missions. While in orbit, he communicated with his wife and consumed specific rations including shredded pork with garlic and Kung Pao chicken. He also displayed flags of the People's Republic of China and the United Nations. After returning to Earth, he was greeted by Premier Wen Jiabao.
Post-Flight Responsibilities
Following his spaceflight, Yang transitioned into administrative and leadership roles within the Chinese space program. He was named vice-commander-in-chief of the astronaut system and eventually became the director of the China Manned Space Engineering Office. In 2004, he began doctoral studies at Tsinghua University, earning a PhD in Management in 2009. He attained the rank of major general in 2008.
Public Recognition
Yang received the Spaceflight Exploit Medal in 2003 and was awarded the Gagarin medal by Russia. His academic honors include an honorary doctorate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. International recognition followed in 2017 when he received the UNESCO Medal on Space Science. His legacy is also marked by the naming of asteroid 21064 Yangliwei and the fossil bird species Dalingheornis liweii.
Fast facts
- Born: 1965, Suizhong County
- Mission: Shenzhou 5
- Launch Date: 15 October 2003
- Flight Duration: 21 hours, 22 minutes, 45 seconds
- Education: Tsinghua University, PLA Air Force Aviation University
- Military Rank: Major General
- Key Award: Spaceflight Exploit Medal (2003)
Questions readers ask
Was Yang Liwei the first person of Chinese origin in space?
No. Shanghai-born Taylor Wang flew on the U.S. Space Shuttle mission STS-51-B in 1985, though he was a United States citizen at the time.
Did Yang fly on subsequent space missions?
No. Following the precedent set by Yuri Gagarin, an official decision was made to restrict him from future spaceflight assignments.
Achievements
- Educated at Tsinghua University and PLA Air Force Aviation University
- Worked as astronaut and fighter pilot
