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Yan LiveyFirst Chinese astronaut
Country:
 China |
Content:
Biography of Yang Liwei
A Celebrated AstronautThe successful flight of China's first manned spacecraft caused jubilation throughout the country. Astronaut Yang Liwei became an idol for the Chinese youth. In his hometown in the Northeast region, in Suizhong County, Liaoning Province, the locals celebrated their fellow countryman's success with fireworks and dancing. Correspondents visited Yang Liwei's family one after another. His former school held a solemn ceremony and named a class after him.
A Diligent Student
Yang Liwei is 38 years old. As a military pilot, he flew 1350 hours on attack aircraft and fighters. His comrades praise him, saying, "He is in good health, loves science, and is always ready to help and collaborate with others." In 1998, Yang Liwei was selected as one of the first Chinese astronauts. Since then, he, along with 13 other candidates, began studying and training diligently in order to explore space. According to Yang Liwei, the training and preparation for astronauts were much more serious and challenging than in university or the Air Force. Despite the difficulties, he never felt bitter and was eager to fulfill China's long-standing dream of a successful spaceflight.
A Respected Astronaut
Yang Liwei's sobriety and excellent character made him stand out among the other candidates. His family life is also happy, with his wife Zhang Yuemei being a beautiful and virtuous woman who supports him wholeheartedly. Yang Liwei's father was an economist and accountant, and his mother was a teacher. His older sister and younger brother live and work in their hometown. Every four years, according to tradition, Yang Liwei visits his relatives. However, his sister and brother have not seen him since 2001.
A Passionate Athlete
Apart from his studies and work, Yang Liwei enjoys playing basketball, ping-pong, and other sports. He excels in the 100-meter race, running it in just over 11 seconds. He is also a fan of lyrical music and computers.
A Proud Father
Yang Liwei considers himself an unimportant father since he has never taken his son to or from kindergarten. In the past, he, like his colleagues, only returned home on weekends, leaving little time for his son. Nevertheless, his son is undoubtedly proud of his father. On October 15th at 7:58 PM Beijing time, Yang Liwei, who was in space aboard the Shenzhou-5 spacecraft, spoke to his family. In an excited state, his 8-year-old son asked him, "Daddy, did you eat anything? What did you see in space?" Yang Liwei replied, "I ate and saw our beautiful homeland. I recorded everything I saw in space."
