Professor Gui Haichao, astronaut and faculty member at the School of Astronautics of Beihang University, has been honored with the 2025 China Youth May Fourth Medal, which was announced by the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League and the All-China Youth Federation on April 30.

Gui Haichao, recipient of the China Youth May Fourth Medal

Gui Haichao, recognized as a national-level young talent, serves as both doctoral supervisor and payload specialist in China's astronaut program. He earned the "Hero Astronaut" title and the Space Merit Medal (Third Class) in 2024 for his contributions to the Shenzhou-16 mission in 2023.

"Transform dreams into persistent action and have the courage to break through boundaries," Gui urged fellow youth during the award ceremony. "I sincerely hope more young people will set long-term goals and always pursue their dreams in building a strong aerospace and technology nation."

Gui's remarkable journey from classroom educator to space station researcher represents a new paradigm of serving the nation through science. During his 154-day orbital mission, Gui demonstrated exceptional professional expertise. He conducted groundbreaking experiments in microgravity physics, materials science, and life sciences. He served as an inspirational "space teacher," demonstrating scientific principles to millions of students. He also collaborated seamlessly with crewmates and ground teams to collect valuable research data.

China's Tiangong space station opened its space science project application system on July 20, 2023, with astronaut Gui Haichao inviting researchers worldwide to conduct experiments 

On September 21, 2023, the fourth session of 'Tiangong Classroom' connected over 2,000 Beihang students with astronaut Gui Haichao aboard China's space station

Beyond his orbital achievements, Gui has developed innovative spacecraft attitude control solutions for emergency scenarios. He has published over 60 academic papers and received several prestigious awards, including the 18th China Youth Science and Technology Award and the 16th Aerospace Laurel Award.

By integrating ideological education with aerospace outreach, Gui inspires youth by sharing his personal journey from small-town dreamer to space explorer. His lectures and experiments continue motivating young students to embrace the dedication and perseverance that define China's aerospace industry.

China Youth May Fourth Medals have been awarded since 1997. The medals are the highest honor awarded to youths from all walks of life and all corners of the country.

Editors: Han Xu, Lyu Xingyun