Crew members (from left) Tang Shengjie, Tang Hongbo and Jiang Xinlin take part in a simulation training for the Shenzhou XVII space mission in September. [Photo by Wang Xiayang/For China Daily]

Mission scheduled to launch from Jiuquan site in Gobi Desert on Thursday

The crew members of the Shenzhou XVII space mission have spoken of their intense training, preparedness and confidence ahead of Thursday's scheduled launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China's Gobi Desert.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Senior Colonel Tang Hongbo, commander of the Shenzhou XVII mission, told reporters that as his team will be only the second crew to stay inside the Tiangong space station after it was completed at the end of last year, they are tasked with conducting a large number of scientific experiments and technological tests.

"Hard training on the ground is the only way for the success of our mission in space. To prepare for our tasks, we have spared no efforts to study theories, practical procedures and maneuvers, and improve our skills.

"We've focused on science and technology tasks in fields such as space-based materials research, fundamental physics in a microgravity environment, and life science and biotechnology," he said.

The crew members have spent a lot of time and energy familiarizing themselves with space station management, spacewalk and healthcare skills, especially procedures involved in emergency response and handling malfunctions, according to the mission commander.

"It is in consideration of the fact that there are always risks and hazards in space, which requires astronauts to be able to take measures in a rapid, accurate manner," Tang explained.

The senior colonel added that during the past two years since he returned from the three-month Shenzhou XII mission, he has raced against the clock to learn new knowledge and hone his skills to be ready for his next flight.

"As mission commander, I am responsible for making this flight successful. I have the confidence, determination and ability to work with my two colleagues to complete our mission," he noted.

Lieutenant Colonel Jiang Xinlin, who will fly with Tang, told reporters that he and his teammates have been exposed to a professional training system with experienced trainers and well-designed facilities.

"The training is safe and efficient and has turned me from a fighter jet aviator into an astronaut," he said. "In this coming mission, each of us has our own assignments, and we will also share each other's work because as a team, we have the same goal — the mission's success."

Lieutenant Colonel Tang Shengjie, another crew member, said he comes from the northwestern province of Gansu, home to the ancient legend of fairies flying in the heavens, and he's always wished to fly high.

"I will get used to the weightless environment in space, follow instructions from the mission commander, and use my best skills to work with my colleagues to fulfill my duties," he said.