Exploring Dreams Beyond Earth: The Shenzhou-21 Crew's Exciting Journey

Imagine savoring sizzling barbequed chicken wings and delicious steaks, but this time, it's happening 400 kilometers above Earth at China's space station. On November 1, 2025, the Shenzhou-21 crew, consisting of six astronauts from both the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions, successfully rendezvoused in orbit. Equipped with a unique hot air oven, the team executed a BBQ feast like no other, all while floating among the stars.

This illustrious crew highlights a generational blend of talent; they comprise astronauts born in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, fulfilling diverse roles such as space pilot, flight engineer, and payload specialist. Leading this exceptional team is mission commander Zhang Lu, whose lifelong dream of reaching the sky was realized when he completed the Shenzhou-15 mission.

At the age of 46, Zhang exemplifies determination as he overcame the physical challenges that come with age. “I approach each training test with the utmost dedication, aiming to excel at every turn,” he declares. His journey to becoming the mission commander of Shenzhou-21 came after rigorous selection and steadfast commitment, showcasing his resolve to lead his peers into the heavenly realms.

Joining him is Wu Fei, who at just 32, is the youngest astronaut in China's space program. His engineering prowess has made him an integral part of numerous major space projects, including work on the Tianhe core cabin—the very spacecraft he helped construct. “When I heard I was selected for this mission, I was overwhelmed with pride,” Wu recalls. It’s a profound moment for him to reunite with a cabin he has long cherished, now serving as their orbiting home.

The crew also includes Zhang Hongzhang, a payload specialist and scientific researcher. Tasked with conducting various experiments aboard the station, Zhang represents a commitment to innovation. One particularly exciting project involves the wedding of mice in orbit, aimed at studying their breeding and habits in microgravity. “Carrying out these experiments honorably reflects the sweat and dedication of Earth’s researchers,” he expresses.

Echoing the words of ancient poet Xin Qiji, who mused about soaring through the boundless sky, today’s astronauts symbolize that dream in action, gazing upon the Earth’s majestic landscapes from above. As humanity continues to aspire for the stars, the Shenzhou-21 crew stands at the forefront of this cosmic endeavor.

With a mission steeped in aspiration and groundbreaking exploration, the Shenzhou-21 crew blends personal dreams with collective ambitions. As they embark on a journey to contribute significantly to humankind’s understanding of space, we look forward to their continued success and the potential chapters they will add to China’s evolving manned space flight narrative. Their voyage isn’t just a mission; it’s a testament to courage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.

Their culinary experience in the atmosphere symbolizes the strides taken towards merging everyday experiences with scientific exploration. With support and good fortune, the Shenzhou-21 crew will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the annals of space exploration.