Selection process launched to pick third batch of astronauts

Beijing: China has officially launched the selection of its third batch of astronauts, and is expected to select about 17 to 18 trainees, including women, an official closely related to manned space announced.

“The selection consists of three periods, and we will select not only males but also female candidates for the third batch of astronauts,” said Yang Liwei, deputy head of the China Manned Space Agency and the nation’s first astronaut.