A 14-day mission aboard the Tiangong-1 space station defined the career of Zhang Xiaoguang, a military pilot and taikonaut within the Chinese space program. Selected for the national program in 1998, he transitioned from a role as a squadron commander in the People's Liberation Army Air Force to become a key figure in high-altitude orbital operations for the People's Republic of China.
Early Career and Training
Born in May 1966 in Heishan County, Jinzhou, Zhang Xiaoguang spent his early professional years as a military pilot. By 2004, he had accumulated 1,000 flight hours, establishing the technical background required for his transition to astronaut training. He was of Manchu ethnicity and served as a squadron commander before joining the selection process for the Shenzhou program in 1998.
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The primary objective of Zhang's spaceflight career occurred in 2013 with the Shenzhou 10 mission. Launched on 11 June 2013, at 09:38 UTC via a Long March 2F rocket, the crew successfully reached the Tiangong-1 space station. The mission, which served as the third spaceflight to this specific orbital facility, required the crew to remain on board for 12 days to conduct operations and research.
Return and Recognition
After a total mission duration of 14 days, 14 hours, and 29 minutes, Zhang Xiaoguang returned to Earth on 26 June 2013, at 00:07 UTC. Following the successful completion of this flight, he received the Spaceflight Exploit Medal in 2013. His professional history also includes serving as a backup crew member for the Shenzhou 9 mission before his eventual selection for the Shenzhou 10 flight.
Fast facts
- Born: May 1966
- Birthplace: Heishan County, Jinzhou
- Nationality: People's Republic of China
- Occupation: Astronaut, aircraft pilot
- Flight Hours: 1,000 (as of 2004)
- Mission: Shenzhou 10
- Award: Spaceflight Exploit Medal (2013)
Questions readers ask
Which spacecraft did Zhang Xiaoguang pilot?
He was a crew member on the Shenzhou 10 mission.
What honors has Zhang Xiaoguang received?
He was awarded the Spaceflight Exploit Medal in 2013.
Achievements
- Worked as astronaut and aircraft pilot
