Talking the language of harmony in space

European astronauts turn to Chinese to expand horizons and friendships

As China broadens its exploration of space at an ever faster pace, many in Europe are hoping for expanded cooperation with China in this new frontier.

With their career paths in mind, many European astronauts have begun learning Chinese, and they are also showing a great interest in Chinese culture.

"Looking up, I see the immensity of the cosmos. Bowing my head, I look at the multitude of the world. The gaze flies, the heart expands, the joy of the senses can reach its peak, and indeed, this is true happiness," Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti tweeted in mid-October during a stay on the International Space Station, or ISS. She was quoting from Lantingji Xu, a classic of Chinese literature from the 4th century, to describe her feelings in space.