China
Backgrounder: Astronaut selection and training in China
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Every day, candidates receive 10 hours of aerospace training. Those selected undergo three stages of rigorous training: basic theory, special skills and flying operations.
In the first stage, the candidates must show sound knowledge of basic theories of space flight -- such as flight dynamics, astronautics and astronomy, as well design principles of rockets and spacecraft.
In the second stage, astronauts must grasp all facets of the structure and composition of the spaceship and its operational modes.
In the third stage, astronauts are required to complete process from launch through entering orbit until returning and landing in spaceship simulators.
At present, China has 14 astronauts. Yang Liwei, Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng are the most well-known. Their average age is around 40, the prime age for astronauts.
However, more astronauts are being trained to ensure the transition from one generation of astronauts to the next is a smooth one.
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Interactive: Be part of China's journey to space!
Editor:Zhang Ning
