Shenzhou 21 marks the first spaceflight for Zhang Hongzhang, a researcher selected by the China Manned Space Agency in 2020. Born in Zouping in 1986, Zhang transitioned from a specialized academic career in chemical engineering to become a taikonaut, specifically trained to manage complex scientific operations and technical applications while stationed in orbit.
Academic and Research Background
Zhang attended Shandong University, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering in 2008. He continued his studies at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, completing a Ph.D. in 2013 at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics. Following his graduation, Zhang remained at the institute as a researcher and group leader. His work primarily centered on high-specific-energy battery technologies, including lithium-sulfur, lithium-ion, and new-system flow batteries. Over the course of this research period, he authored more than 30 papers and filed over 60 patent applications, earning several provincial-level awards for his contributions to technological invention.
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In September 2020, Zhang was officially selected as part of the third batch of astronauts for the People's Republic of China. He achieved the designation of payload specialist, a role focused on the oversight of scientific experiments and technological research conducted in space. After undergoing rigorous training and evaluation protocols, he was assigned to the Shenzhou 21 mission. As a taikonaut, his primary function involves executing specific orbital research mandates aboard the Tiangong space station.
Early Life
Zhang Hongzhang was born in the town of Linchi, located within Zouping, Shandong, in April 1986. He has an elder sister, Zhang Hong'en. He became a member of the Chinese Communist Party in August 2004, while completing his undergraduate education.
Fast facts
- Born: April 1986, Zouping, China
- Citizenship: People's Republic of China
- Undergraduate Degree: Shandong University, 2008
- Doctoral Degree: Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, 2013
- Selected as Astronaut: September 2020
- Role: Payload Specialist
- Mission: Shenzhou 21
- Party Affiliation: Chinese Communist Party (joined 2004)
Questions readers ask
What is Zhang Hongzhang's primary role in space?
He serves as a payload specialist, responsible for managing scientific experiments and technological research aboard the space station.
What scientific field did Zhang work in before becoming an astronaut?
He specialized in chemical engineering and high-specific-energy battery technologies at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics.
Achievements
- Recorded as researcher and astronaut
