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Astronauts speak about close partnership

CCTV.com

10-19-2016 04:07 BJT

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CCTV held exclusive interviews with the two astronauts on the crew of Shenzhou-11 Spacecraft: Jing Haipeng and Chen Dong. They spelled out the details on how they're trained to become ideal partners.

It's a team-up between a veteran and a rookie. That's how the crew of Shenzhou-11 works.

Jing Haipeng is the commander on Shenzhou-11 Spacecraft. He was among China's very first group of astronauts and has 18 years of training. He has been to space twice... in 2008 and in 2012.

"As one of China's first group of astronauts, I have been through various situations, and there have been successful experiences and failures. But all of it is precious," Jing said.

"This could be the advantage of an experienced astronaut. I think we experienced astronauts and rookies can work together perfectly because we complement each other."

Chen Dong is part of China's second batch of astronauts. He has been going through strict physical checks and comprehensive training in psychological endurance and professional skills since 2010. Chen made it through rigid tests to became the second crew member of Shenzhou-11 Spacecraft.

"So far, I think we've had perfect cooperation. Without language, and with just simple gestures, we can read each other's minds. So I think we are perfect partners," he said.

But the two astronauts say they still make minor mistakes during training. They caution each other and cover each other's backs to successfully complete every mission.

The two say they also have similar personalities toward their profession and life.

"I have to say that we share a lot in common. We are both good-tempered, and we view our missions and our profession in similar ways. So if you ask me how I fell about him, I'd say it's great to work with him," Jing said.

"I feel very lucky to work with Jing in a team. He's already been through two space flights. He's experienced. I feel safe when he's around. And he's always been my role model," Chen said.

Jing's abundant experience, plus Chen's stable performance, add certainty to the successful accomplishment of the Shenzhou-11 manned space mission. Leaders and colleagues in the Astronaut Center of China call the two ideal partners.


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