【新华社】神二十一乘组航天员张洪章：带着自己实验飞天的载荷专家

Core Points - Zhang Hongzhang is a key figure in China's space program, serving as a payload expert for the Shenzhou 21 mission, highlighting the importance of collaboration between ground and space teams [2][4] - His journey from a curious child in Shandong to a leading researcher and astronaut reflects a commitment to national scientific advancement and the application of research in space [6][11] - Zhang's expertise in electrochemical energy storage and his contributions to optimizing critical materials underscore the significance of domestic research in supporting China's space ambitions [9][11] Background and Education - Born in 1986 in Shandong, Zhang developed a strong interest in life sciences from a young age, despite initially pursuing a degree in chemical engineering at Shandong University [6][8] - His academic journey continued at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he focused on research that has practical applications for national needs [9][11] Career Development - Zhang's selection as one of the four payload experts in China's third astronaut selection batch marks a significant milestone in his career, emphasizing the rigorous training and transformation he underwent [11][12] - His unique approach to training, incorporating principles from Tai Chi, demonstrates innovative methods in preparing for the challenges of space missions [14] Current Mission and Responsibilities - As a payload expert on the Shenzhou 21 mission, Zhang is responsible for conducting scientific experiments in the space station, which reflects the culmination of efforts from ground researchers [16] - The mission includes experiments in life sciences, an area Zhang is passionate about, showcasing the integration of his personal interests with national scientific goals [16][18] Future Aspirations - Zhang expresses excitement about witnessing technological breakthroughs in China's space endeavors, representing the aspirations of a generation committed to scientific exploration [18]