News

PolyU Info Day 2024

PolyU Info Day, held on 12th October 2024, achieved remarkable success with a record-breaking visitor number of over 41,000. The Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) received active participation from academic and supporting staff, students, and alumni, providing secondary school students, parents, and individuals with the latest information about the admission and academic programmes of LSGI. Throughout the event, LSGI engaged visitors with a variety of informative activities, including booth consultations, admission talks for both Bachelor's (BSc) and Master's (MSc) programmes, alumni sharing sessions, thematic discussions by current students, and guided lab tours. Notably, over 230 participants attended the admission talks, while more than 120 individuals took part in the guided tours, reflecting a strong interest in our programmes.  During the two sessions of BSc admission talks, Ir Prof. Wallace LAI, Associate Head and Professor, and Dr Sissi CHEN, Deputy Programme Leader and Lecturer, provided in-depth insights into the curriculum and opportunities available within the LSGI programmes. Dr Xintao LIU and Dr Yang XU, programme leaders of MSc programmes, gave introduction on admission and characteristics of two master's degree programmes. Additionally, two young LSGI graduates shared their professional journeys, emphasizing the exciting career opportunities in the public and private sectors. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our alumni, Mr. Kwok Kam-Ngai, Sales and Support Engineer at RIEGL Asia Pacific Ltd, and Ms. Amelia Ng, Land Surveyor at the Lands Department, for their valuable contributions during the sharing BSc sessions. Their experiences provided prospective students with a real-world perspective on the diverse paths available within the field of land surveying and geo-informatics. Furthermore, LSGI student Sammy Chan delivered an engaging presentation during the Faculty of Construction and Environment (FCE) thematic talk, enriching the dialogue with insights from a current student’s viewpoint.

LSGI scholar interviewed by RTHK on China’s space missions

Prof. WU Bo, Fiona Cheung Professor in Spatial Science, Associate Head (Research) of the Department of Land Surveying & Geo-Informatics (LSGI) and Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), has recently been interviewed by RTHK on Chang’e-6 mission’s challenges and Hong Kong’s contributions to the country’s space industry.    Prof. Wu and his research team used artificial intelligence methods to significantly reduce the time required for calculating landing sites for probes. The research team spent over six months on related work for Chang'e 3, whereas the Tianwen-1 Mars mission only took less than two months using new technology.   The recent success of the Chang'e 6 mission, which marked the first global sample collection from the moon's far side, highlights the significance of continuous technological advancement in space exploration. Prof. Wu's contributions exemplify the significant role that Hong Kong scientists play in national projects, showcasing the unique advantages of interdisciplinary collaboration and international connections.   Prof. Wu said that Hong Kong scholars, with diverse backgrounds and extensive international connections, have a unique advantage and can contribute significantly to the aerospace field.   Online coverage RTHK

Delegation from Singapore Land Authority Visits LSGI

On 23rd September 2024, a delegation of four representatives from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), led by Ms. Thong Wai Lin, Deputy Chief Executive of SLA, visited LSGI. The delegation received a warm welcome from Prof. Wu Chen, Head of LSGI, along with Prof. Wallace Lai, Dr. Yang Xu, and Dr. Tiangang Yin, who joined the meeting representing LSGI.   Prof. Chen Wu provided an overview of LSGI and our programmes at all levels, including MSc, BSc, and joint BSc, and expressed interest in seeking accreditation from the Singapore Surveyor Board and related professional bodies. Both parties agreed to continue the dialogue through more frequent visits and the potential signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for future collaboration.   During the visit, the delegation toured several laboratories of LSGI, including Underground Utility Survey Laboratory and Laboratory for Smart City and Spatial Big Data Analytics to understand the different surveying technologies and equipment at LSGI. Prof. John Shi, Chair Professor of LSGI and Director of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute, shared the latest research initiatives and development by PolyU on smart cities with the guests.   This visit is a significant step towards exploring collaboration in educational matters related to various land and utilities survey professions, addressing the shortage of expertise in Singapore. It provides a platform to foster the cooperation between LSGI and SLA.

Prof. Charles WONG receives Smart Traffic Fund for research on enhancing traffic efficiency

Prof. Charles Man-sing WONG, Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment and Associate Director of the Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) has been awarded HK$5.3 million for his project titled “A study on public transport re-routing, with a healthy ‘Wait-to-Ride’ trip mode for optimizing public transportation routes and improving traffic congestion”. The project aims to analyse the routes and stops of road public transportation. A spatio-temporal environmental database will be developed for providing suggestions on reorganising public transport routes in over-served areas with duplicated routes, with the aim of easing road traffic congestion and enhancing the efficiency of the road network.   Click to read more

LSGI Scholars Ranked Among the World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists by Stanford University (2024)

Six academic staff members from Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics (LSGI), including Prof. John Wenzhong SHI, Prof. Qihao WENG, Prof. Jianli CHEN, Prof. Charles Man Sing WONG, Prof. Xiaolin ZHU and Dr. Ameer Hamza KHAN, have been ranked among the World’s Top 2% most-cited scientists in career-long and single-year categories, according to the Stanford University list published in September 2024. As with last year, the database categorized scientists into 22 subject fields and 174 sub-fields. It has taken their research publications into consideration, including information on citations, individual’s scientific research output, co-authorship and a composite indicator. For further details, please refer to the latest database here. Congratulations to our staff for their outstanding achievements!   Career-long Data Name of Researcher Subject Field Prof. John Wenzhong SHI Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Qihao WENG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Jianli CHEN Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Prof. Xiaolin ZHU Geological and Geomatics Engineering   Single Recent Year Data Name of Researcher Subject Field Prof. John Wenzhong SHI Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Qihao WENG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Jianli CHEN Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Prof. Charles Man Sing WONG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Xiaolin ZHU Geological and Geomatics Engineering Dr Ameer Hamza KHAN Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Successful LSGI Orientation Day Welcomes Freshmen to PolyU

On 30 August 2024, the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at PolyU successfully hosted its Orientation Day for all incoming undergraduate and master’s programme freshmen. The event was held in a face-to-face format, marking a vibrant start to the new academic year. Prof. Wu Chen, Chair Professor of Satellite Navigation and Head of LSGI, warmly welcomed the new students and provided an insightful introduction to the department. He also took the opportunity to introduce the academic, teaching, and support staff, ensuring that the students felt acquainted with the team dedicated to their educational journey. The orientation was a valuable opportunity for our faculty and support staff to meet nearly 200 new faces, fostering a sense of community from the outset. To ensure a strong start to the semester, the orientation included detailed programme introductions by the respective programme leaders. Additionally, representatives from the Library and the Office of General University Requirements were invited to share essential information and resources available to students. This comprehensive approach aimed to equip students with the knowledge and tools needed for a successful academic experience. During the break-out sessions, undergraduate students had the chance to meet their academic advisors, establishing important connections that will support their academic planning and personal development throughout their time at PolyU. Master’s students also had the opportunity to meet their programme leaders and gain an understanding of the essential information and different academic paths for their upcoming studies. We hope that all students found the orientation informative and helpful, setting the stage for a rewarding and enjoyable university life at PolyU.

LSGI & RCAIG Joint Seminar: Exploring the Future of Cadastral Surveys

The Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics and the Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG) jointly hosted a seminar on 30 August 2024, bringing together leading experts to discuss the future of cadastral surveys and land management in Hong Kong. The event featured Professor Ben CHAN Siu-bun, Adjunct Professor from the Research Institute of Land and Space, along with guest speakers from the Lands Department, HKSAR Government. The seminar covered various aspects, from the historical background of cadastral surveys in Hong Kong to the potential applications of Artificial Intelligence in addressing current industry challenges. Speakers provided insights into implementing the Land Survey Ordinance (Cap.473) and explored integrated developments in the lands and works industries. During the discussion, Prof. Qihao WENG, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence from LSGI and Director of RCAIG, proposed that the government should allocate specific funds to support the development of Artificial Intelligence technology for cadastral surveys, similar to the Smart Traffic Fund. Additionally, he recommended establishing a joint lab to engage in in-depth discussions and build partnerships with the academic community. This event demonstrated the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling complex challenges in land management and surveying, while also highlighting the potential of AI to revolutionize these fields.   Click here to read more!

Research by LSGI Scholar Identifies Effective Heat Indices for Detecting Dangerous Outdoor Conditions

We are delighted to announce that the research team from the Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG), led by Prof. Qihao WENG, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence in the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has published a groundbreaking study. This research addresses the need for developing global heat wave frameworks to effectively identify dangerous outdoor conditions across diverse climatic and geographic regions. These developments will assist climate scientists, health professionals, policymakers, and communities in creating mitigation strategies and raising awareness about heat risks. The article, titled “Comparing Existing Heat Wave Indices in Identifying Dangerous Heat Wave Outdoor Conditions,” was published on 7 August 2024, in the journal Nexus of Cell Press. Dr. Pir Mohammad, a postdoctoral research fellow in the JC STEM Lab of Earth Observations at PolyU, is the first author, while Prof. Weng serves as the corresponding author. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of commonly used heat wave indices in identifying dangerous outdoor conditions, using recent heat wave events observed in Asia, Europe, and North America as case studies. The results underscore the necessity for a global heat risk framework and nomenclature for heat risk early warning systems. Additionally, they highlight the need for local authorities to adopt more sophisticated heat stress mitigation and adaptation measures in the face of rapid global warming. This study encourages a broader discussion on the feasibility of using existing heat stress indices to accurately assess and respond to dangerous heat stress scenarios across various climatic, geographic, and meteorological contexts. The discussion surrounding the development of a heat risk framework closely aligns with the World Health Organization’s call for action on extreme heat. For more information, please visit the publication: DOI: 10.1016/j.ynexs.2024.100027 Congratulations to Prof. Weng and his team on this remarkable achievement! Online Coverage: EurekAlert! by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science Daily The Economic Times Science Magazine Eurasia Review    

LSGI Students Receive Awards from The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) for Outstanding Academic Achievements 2024

The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors Scholarship and 2023 Dissertation Awards Presentation Ceremony was successfully held at the Surveyors Learning Centre on 30 July 2024. The event was organized by The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS), aiming to promote research amongst future surveyors and reward the efforts of the best students.   On the event day, the representatives from HKIS, including Sr Francis LAM Ka Fai (HKIS President), Sr Steven TANG Chi Kin (Chairman of Board of Education), and Sr Dr. Mei-yung Leung (Chairman of Research Committee), presented the prizes to the award winners. Notably, 6 awardees were from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), showcasing the outstanding academic achievements of the students. We are glad to announce the following winners:   2023 Dissertation Awards Bachelor Category Merit Award:     MOK Ka Him Top Award:  SIT Fei Ching    HKIS Scholarship 2024 BSc (Hons) in Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics First Prize:  WONG Ka Wai XU Yi Nam     Second Prize: CHAN Chi Yin CHAN Sze Chuen   We believe our students and graduates will continue to excel in their studies and contribute significantly to the surveying industries. Congratulations to all the LSGI awardees on this well-deserved recognition!   Previous news related:  LSGI Students Receive HKIS Outstanding Dissertation Awards 2023      

LSGI PhD Student Won Best Paper Award at the CPGPS 2024 Conference

In the recent 2024 Annual Forum of the International Association of Chinese Professionals in Global Positioning Systems (CPGPS) held in Beijing, China, from 25-27 July 2024, PhD student Mr. Jiafei Xu won the “Best Paper Award” for his paper titled “Directly Retrieving Integrated Water Vapor from Sentinel-3 OLCI NIR Radiance Data Under Cloudy Sky Conditions Based on Ground-Based GNSS Measurements”. Mr. Xu, a PhD student under the supervision of Prof. Zhizhao George Liu at the Micro-Laboratory of Atmospheric Research and Geomatics Engineering (Micro-LARGE) in the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has been making significant progress in the field of remote sensing and atmospheric science. His current research interests focus on the development and validation of advanced algorithms to enhance precipitable water vapor retrievals from multi-satellite visible, near-infrared, infrared, and microwave observations. The work presented in this winning paper has significant implications in improving the accuracy of water vapor data, which is crucially important in weather forecasting and climate modeling. The Micro-LARGE Lab is the first one in the world to calibrate all-weather (including cloudy condition) near-infrared (NIR) band satellite remote sensing water vapor data. The Micro-LARGE is also the first one in the world to assimilate it into Numerical Weather Prediction model. Currently Mr. Xu is in his 4th year of PhD programme at PolyU. During his PhD programme, he has published 17 peer-reviewed journal papers (including 14 Q1 and 2 Q2 papers) and has a few papers in review. Congratulations to Jiafei!