Shenzhou XV crew returns safely to Earth

Deng, 56, trained for 25 years before he finally got an opportunity to fly to space, becoming a shining example of the dedication and perseverance of Chinese astronauts. He said his experiences over the years reinforced his belief in the power of dreams and persistence. "No matter how old I am, I feel so happy to have been summoned to serve my motherland," he added.

Zhang, one of the nation's second batch of astronauts, recalled that he often tried to spot China, his hometown in Hunan province, as well as the Dongting Lake, when the Tiangong space station flew over Earth.

"Although these places were often hidden by thick clouds, they were always in my heart and mind. We will go back to training as soon as our bodies permit, and will always be ready to return to space to contribute to this great new era and fulfill the duties given by the Party and the people," he said.