National space hero Yang Liwei is still undecided on whether to travel to space again but is prepared for future space missions.

Yang said this Thursday at the Chinese University of Hong Kong after he was conferred an honorary doctorate of science, adding that space missions are a part of his work and he will do his best to fulfil his responsibility as an astronaut.

"This is not only my personal honor, but a tribute to those who have contributed to our country's manned space travel program," he told guests yesterday.

Dressed in a doctorate graduate's robe, Yang was greeted enthusiastically by citizens, who affectionately referred to him as "astronaut hero".

"It has been a year since I last visited Hong Kong, and I am once again moved by Hong Kong people's warmth. Their support and enthusiasm for space travel has become a constant source of encouragement for my work."

A spokesman of the university praised Yang for being a role model for Chinese people.

"He showed to the world China's achievements in science and technology, and laid a foundation for the country's astronautical endeavors in the years to come."

"Eagerly watched by billions of his compatriots, he created a first for astronautics for the Chinese people," he said.

Yang had achieved success with years of stringent training, unrelenting efforts, unremitting diligence and perseverance, and his willpower propelled him to great deeds, the spokesman added.

Yang's historic mission on the Shenzhou V spacecraft, made China the third country to send a human into space after the former Soviet Union and the United States.

The former fighter pilot was selected from 14 final candidates for the mission, having had 1,350 hours of flight experience and having showed a "calm mental state" during psychological tests.

(China Daily December 10, 2004)