A top space agency official on Thursday said he hopes a new space exhibition at two Hong Kong museums will deepen Hongkongers' understanding of the nation's aerospace technology.

"This exhibition will showcase the 30-year journey of manned space engineering, allowing Hong Kong people to learn more about human spaceflight, participate in human spaceflight, and inspire people's enthusiasm for advocating science, exploring the unknown, and chasing dreams," said Lin Xiqiang, Deputy Director General of the China Manned Space Agency.

Lin is leading a 17-member delegation, which includes four astronauts, on a visit to Hong Kong.

A secondary school student, who attended the opening ceremony for the exhibition, described the visiting astronauts as kind.

"I met astronauts like Wang Yaping and Chen Dong this time. I think they are very gentle and kind. I even took a photo with Wang Yaping. I hope she can hold the third Tiangong science lesson in space," he said.

Meanwhile, Chief Secretary Eric Chan said in his opening address at the ceremony that he hopes Hong Kong people can contribute to the nation's space development.

The "China Manned Space Exhibition" will be at the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History from December 1 to mid-February next year.

The delegation also attended a banquet hosted by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and spoke to teachers and students at the Polytechnic University (PolyU).

A postgraduate student surnamed Chan, who previously took part in the country's space projects, said he was inspired by the astronauts' stories, especially the challenges they faced while fixing the Tiangong space station outside the capsule.

Another student, who works at the PolyU Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, said the university will keep contributing to the nation's space industry.
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Last updated: 2023-11-30 HKT 20:02