Mother of the Stars: Wang Yaping's Journey to Space

Mother of the Stars: Wang Yaping's Journey to SpaceOn June 11, 2013, the Shenzhou-10 spacecraft carried three astronauts, including Liu Yang, China's first female astronaut, into space. However, behind this mission was another woman who contributed silentlyWang Yaping

Mother of the Stars: Wang Yaping's Journey to Space

On June 11, 2013, the Shenzhou-10 spacecraft carried three astronauts, including Liu Yang, China's first female astronaut, into space. However, behind this mission was another woman who contributed silentlyWang Yaping. While she didn't board Shenzhou-9, Wang Yaping's "space dream" never faded. With a resolute heart, she continuously strived to achieve her dream. Finally, in the selection for Shenzhou-10, Wang Yaping stood out, becoming China's second female astronaut to fly into space.

"Famous overnight," Wang Yaping's name echoed across China. She not only fulfilled her space dream but also became China's first "space teacher," delivering an unforgettable "space lesson" to 60 million primary and secondary school students nationwide. During the 40-minute lesson, Wang Yaping, using vivid language and captivating experiments, showcased the wonders of space to the children, igniting their passion for scientific exploration.

Eight years later, Shenzhou-13 soared into the sky, and Wang Yaping embarked on another space journey. This time, she was not only to act as a "space teacher" again but also to enter China's space station, becoming the first Chinese woman to reside there.

From Pilot to Astronaut: Chasing the Dream of Space

Wang Yaping's journey to space wasn't a smooth one; it was fraught with challenges and hardships. Her story begins in a small village in Yantai, Shandong. Dreaming of stepping out of the village and seeing a wider world, Wang Yaping ultimately chose to apply to the flight academy, embarking on an inseparable bond with the sky.

During her four years at the Changchun Flight Academy, Wang Yaping trained diligently, consistently excelling. However, she never became arrogant, always maintaining a humble and hardworking attitude. From training in physical fitness in temperatures below negative twenty degrees, to countless seven-kilometer runs, to various extreme flight skill training, Wang Yaping endured hardships unimaginable to ordinary people.

"When you feel like giving up, push yourself, push yourself a little more." This quote by Wang Yaping encapsulates the secret to her success. It was through this unyielding spirit that she successfully graduated and became a transport aircraft pilot.

A decade of flying experience gave Wang Yaping a wealth of knowledge and ignited her unwavering passion for aviation. She participated in numerous important flight missions, including the Wenchuan earthquake relief efforts, cloud seeding operations for the Beijing Olympics, and military exercises, making significant contributions to the nation and its people.

However, Wang Yaping's dreams extended further. In 2003, when Yang Liwei successfully flew into space, fulfilling the Chinese dream of "reaching for the moon," Wang Yaping's "space dream" also began to take root. She yearned to become an astronaut, fly into space, survey Earth from the cosmos, and experience the immensity and mystery of the universe.

In 2010, China's second batch of astronaut selection commenced, and Wang Yaping, without hesitation, submitted her application. After each round of selection, she ultimately stood out, becoming one of China's second batch of astronauts, fulfilling her space dream.

Two "Missions" to Space: Dreams Become Reality

In 2012, Wang Yaping was chosen as the backup astronaut for the Shenzhou-9 mission, bringing her one step closer to space. However, in the end, Liu Yang was selected to execute this mission. Despite not being part of the "Shenzhou-9 Team," Wang Yaping did not lose heart; she placed her dreams in future missions.

In 2013, Wang Yaping finally embraced her "flight to the sky" moment. She was selected as an astronaut for the Shenzhou-10 mission and would undertake an unprecedented endeavor in spacedelivering a "space lesson" to primary and secondary school students nationwide.

On June 11, Shenzhou-10 launched into space, with Wang Yaping carrying her dreams with her. While in space, she showcased to 60 million primary and secondary school students across the country how different objects behave in a microgravity environment, igniting curiosity and longing for space in the children.

This unique "interaction between heaven and earth" achieved resounding success, generating a nationwide sensation. Wang Yaping became China's first "space teacher," sowing the seeds of cosmic exploration in the hearts of children.

In 2019, Wang Yaping was once again selected for the astronaut corps, becoming an astronaut for the Shenzhou-13 mission. Eight years later, she flew into space once more, delivering "space lessons" to children, and became the first Chinese woman to reside in China's space station.

During the Shenzhou-13 mission, Wang Yaping not only served as a "space teacher" again but also conducted a spacewalk, becoming the first female astronaut from China to perform an extravehicular activity. In space, she demonstrated the wisdom and strength of women, contributing her efforts to China's space program.

Premier Astronaut: The Dedication Behind the Honor

Wang Yaping's two "missions" to space brought glorious achievements to China's space program, earning her countless accolades. She was awarded the "Heroic Astronaut," "Third-Class Aerospace Merit Medal" and many other honors, along with several special privileges.

To ensure the health of astronauts, their diet and living environment differ from ordinary people. Astronaut food undergoes rigorous selection and processing to guarantee nutritional balance and safety. Additionally, upon returning to Earth, astronauts undergo strict rehabilitation training to assist in restoring their physical functions.

As a significant national representative, Wang Yaping enjoys level-two security protection, which is not only recognition of her personal contributions but also a testament to the high priority the nation accords the space program.

Wang Yaping's journey to space is filled with challenges and honors, hardships and dedication. With her actions, she has inscribed a brilliant chapter in the history of Chinese women in the space program and set an example for many others.

Wang Yaping's story is not only about space exploration, but also about dreams, perseverance, hard work, and courage. With her actions, she proved that, with effort, dreams can indeed become reality. Her story will inspire generations of young people to bravely pursue their dreams and strive to achieve them.

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