Commander Chang Lu, no stranger to space holidays, reflected on the profound connection felt from afar. ‘Viewing our home planet through the porthole stirs immense love for family and nation,’ he remarked during a live broadcast.

First-timer Wu Fei brought infectious optimism to the crew. ‘Let’s gallop ahead with Horse Year vigor, chasing dreams without pause,’ he urged, perfectly capturing the festival’s renewal theme.

Veteran Chang Hongchang called it a lifelong treasure. Committed to pioneering cosmic frontiers, he pledged ongoing contributions to China’s scientific ascent.

Come Monday evening, approximately 400 km up, the astronauts will feast on microgravity meals. Traditional fare meets innovation with the debut of oven-baked cakes – a space first that pushes culinary boundaries.

Since blasting off on October 31, 2025, the team has logged more than 100 days tackling experiments, repairs, and wellness routines. Their work advances Beijing’s goal of a permanent human presence in space.

This blend of ancient customs and cutting-edge tech highlights China’s dual mastery of culture and cosmos. While families reunite on Earth, these pioneers forge ahead, proving festivals transcend gravity.