China is organizing the training of the fourth batch of astronauts in an orderly manner according to the established plan, and Hong Kong and Macao astronauts will perform their first flight mission as early as 2026. This is the information learned by the reporter at the press conference of the Shenzhou 20 manned flight mission on the 23rd. Since the fourth batch of astronauts in China joined the team in August 2024, they have carried out various training programs and some specialized training as planned, including learning basic theoretical knowledge of aerospace and adapting to psychological and aerospace environments. ”According to Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson for the China Manned Space Engineering and deputy director of the China Manned Space Engineering Office, through diligent training, all fourth batch astronauts have quickly achieved role transitions, effectively strengthened their basic knowledge reserves, and improved their overall physical fitness. By organizing observation of flight missions such as launch, return, and extravehicular activities, the fourth batch of astronauts have gained a deeper understanding of manned spaceflight engineering and the responsibilities and missions of astronauts. According to the training schedule and previous experience, the time required for different types of astronauts to be selected and carry out flight missions varies. He said, "We are organizing the training of the fourth batch of astronauts in an orderly manner according to the established plan. After obtaining the flight qualification, they will be included in the candidate range of the flight crew. We believe that in the near future, we will see their presence in the flight crew one after another." Hong Kong and Macao astronauts quickly adapted to the work and living environment after joining the team, quickly integrated into the astronaut team, worked hard, and are currently conducting learning and training related to aerospace professional technology. As payload experts, Hong Kong and Macau astronauts are expected to perform their first flight mission as early as 2026. ”Lin Xiqiang said. (New Society)