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PolyU LSGS, Beijing Normal University and Wuhan University Co-hosted GIS & Remote Sensing Summer School 2025 in Beijing, Wuhan and Hong Kong

From 19 to 29 July 2026, the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science (LSGS) co-hosted the second Summer School on Geographic Information Science and Remote Sensing together with the Faculty of Geographical Science at Beijing Normal University (BNU) and the School of Resource and Environmental Sciences at Wuhan University (WHU). Spanning Beijing, Wuhan, and Hong Kong, the programme drew enthusiastic participation from students and faculty across the three institutions, aiming to foster academic exchange and hands-on collaboration in GIS and remote sensing. The Summer School featured rich, diverse activities. Preparatory work began in July with online proposal presentations and mid-term progress reports by mixed-school student teams, guided by faculty advisors from all three universities. On 19 July, BNU and WHU participants gathered at Beijing Normal University for an in-person meet-and-greet with LSGI. Faculty members introduced each university's strengths and developments in GIS and remote sensing, while students shared their learning experiences and campus life. The group toured the university's Geological Specimen Museum and the State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Disaster Risk Reduction. Field investigations were conducted in Yanqing's Liugou Village, the Badaling Great Wall, and Beijing's core urban area. The delegation also participated in a remote sensing image change detection lecture delivered by Prof.Zhang Liqiang from BNU, and participated in a symposium where students and faculty engaged in lively discussions on personal development, study strategies, and future career planning. On 23 July, the programme moved to Wuhan University, where participants visited the Lushan Field Station Laboratory, the Geographic Monitoring and Geographic Visualization Laboratories, the university archive, and the Wuhan Urban Planning Exhibition Center. They also toured the State Key Laboratory of Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing and the Satellite Remote Sensing Data Receiving and Processing Ground Station, gaining a comprehensive view of the complete remote sensing chain from data reception to application services. Industrial partners were also visited, and urban field surveys were conducted in Wuhan around themes of urban renewal and water system patterns. Student teams presented their interim project findings and received feedback and guidance from faculty advisors. From 27 July, the delegation arrived in Hong Kong for the final segment of the programme. Professor Chen Wu delivered welcome remarks. Academic seminars, laboratory tours, and smart city platform visits were held at PolyU. The group also engaged in a seminar with the Hong Kong Lands Department on surveying and geospatial data applications in government services. Urban surveys were conducted in Central, Sheung Wan, and along the Victoria Harbour waterfront, examining road networks, neighbourhood layouts, and coastal spaces to observe the high-density city from a geospatial perspective. Building on the success of the inaugural edition in 2025, this year's Summer School further expanded its geographical reach to three cities and deepened tri-university collaboration, injecting new vitality into cooperative education and research in geographic information science and remote sensing. 

Prof. Qihao WENG Elected as Prestigious ISPRS Fellow in 2026

We are delighted to announce that the Director of the Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG), Prof. Qihao WENG, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence in the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science (LSGS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has been elected as a Fellow of the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS) in 2026. This prestigious honor is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated sustained, exceptional service to the Society and its core missions. With a strict limit of no more than five Fellows elected globally at any ISPRS General Assembly, this recognition represents a highly selective and outstanding milestone that reflects Prof. WENG’s global scientific leadership and profound impact on the geospatial community.  As a Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence and a Global STEM Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Prof. WENG has dedicated his career to pioneering advancements in remote sensing and geospatial AI. Under his leadership, RCAIG has flourished as a hub for cutting-edge research. His personal research contributions have fundamentally shaped the fields of urban remote sensing, urban climate studies, and AI-driven Earth observation, offering crucial data-driven solutions for sustainable urban development worldwide.  This latest fellowship adds to an already distinguished list of international accolades. Prof. WENG is a Foreign Member of Academia Europaea and an elected Fellow of several of the world's most prestigious scientific organizations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the American Association of Geographers (AAG), the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), and the Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association (AAIA). Furthermore, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of the ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing and Lead of the Group on Earth Observations (GEO)’s Global Urban Observation and Information Initiative, actively contributing to the development of the field.  We extend our warmest congratulations to Prof. WENG on this well-deserved recognition. His visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of academic excellence continue to inspire our researchers and students as we work together to push the boundaries of Geomatics and GeoAI.   Useful Link: Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics

LSGI Retitled Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science on 1 July 2026

The Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) has officially changed its name to the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science (LSGS) [土地測量及地理空間科學系], with effect from 1 July 2026, following approval by the Senate.   Established in 1982, the Department adopted the name LSGI in 1992. Over the past four decades, it has evolved significantly while maintaining its strong foundation in land surveying. Its teaching and research scope has expanded into advanced areas such as satellite navigation, remote sensing, space exploration, GeoAI, digital twins, geospatial data science, big data analytics, and a wide range of smart city applications.   The transition from “Geo-Informatics” to “Geospatial Science” reflects the Department’s strategic development and growing impact in the rapidly advancing geospatial sector. The new name aligns with global trends in geospatial technology and supports the Department’s commitment to interdisciplinary education, research, and knowledge transfer.   Looking ahead, the Department of Land Surveying and Geospatial Science is excited to embark on this new chapter and looks forward to strengthening ties with students, alumni, partners, and the wider community.  

Result of Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2026 – LSGI Awardee

We are proud to present The Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU LSGI 2026 to publically recognize our distinguished graduate for her exceptional professional accomplishments, leadership, and significant contributions to the community and her alma mater. The Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU LSGI 2026 – Awardee Sr Prof. SHIU Wai Yee, Winnie (Award Category: Professional Achievement) Sr Prof. SHIU previously served as the Assistant Director of the Lands Department and Head of the Spatial Data Office of the Development Bureau. Her influence also extends globally, having served as President of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) and Vice President of the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG). Through these senior roles, she has elevated professional standards and expanded the global footprint of the geospatial industry. Having led the creation of the Common Spatial Data Infrastructure (CSDI) portal to the public, and established Hong Kong's first HK$60 million Geospatial Lab to nurture young talents and start-ups, Sr Prof. SHIU spearheaded landmark initiatives that shaped Hong Kong’s smart city development. She also managed the development of the first Interactive Map Dashboard for COVID-19, which provided vital real-time updates to citizens. Sr Prof. SHIU’s dedicated service has earned her numerous accolades. Notably, she received the 2020 Chief Executive’s Commendation for Government/Public Service and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Chief Secretary for Administration for her contributions during the pandemic. Her career is also decorated with multiple Outstanding Team and Staff Awards from the Housing Department and the Lands Department, recognizing her role in introducing cutting-edge GIS technologies and unmanned aerial systems to public projects. Beyond her technical achievements, Sr Prof. SHIU remains deeply committed to cross-sector collaboration and mentoring future geospatial professionals. Her journey perfectly embodies LSGI’s spirit of innovation and dedication to societal progress. Please join us in congratulating Sr Prof. Winnie Shiu on this well-deserved honor!

Service Learning Program in Sri Lanka: Empowering Global Communities through Technology

A delegation of 55 staff and students from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), recently completed a Service Learning programme in Sri Lanka, combining technological innovation, community engagement and cross-cultural exchange. During the programme, the team visited the Joint Research and Demonstration Center for Water Technology (JRDC) and participated in academic exchanges with the University of Peradeniya. Students gained first-hand exposure to local sustainability initiatives and water technology applications, while exploring how geospatial technologies can contribute to community development. The delegation was welcomed by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya. Ir. Prof. Wallace Lai, Associate Head of LSGI, highlighted the importance of Service Learning in connecting academic knowledge with real-world challenges and fostering global citizenship among students. As part of the programme, Dr. Yawei Wang from the Chinese Academy of Sciences delivered a guest lecture on scientific innovation and international collaboration. The session provided valuable insights into emerging technologies and inspired students to consider the broader societal impact of scientific research. A key component of the programme was educational outreach in primary and secondary schools in Galle. LSGI students designed and delivered a series of interactive workshops featuring Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and LiDAR technologies. These hands-on activities introduced local students to cutting-edge geospatial technologies and stimulated their interest in science and innovation. The team also organized Chinese cultural activities, including lacquer fan painting, tie-dye art, music, and sports sessions. These activities encouraged meaningful interaction between students from different cultural backgrounds and promoted mutual understanding and friendship. The programme received highly positive feedback from local schools and community partners. For participating students, the experience provided a unique opportunity to apply their professional knowledge in a real-world setting while developing leadership, communication and intercultural competencies. This Service Learning initiative reflects PolyU and LSGI’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible graduates and advancing international engagement through education, technology and community service. As Sri Lanka is an important partner country under the Belt and Road Initiative, the programme provided a valuable platform for strengthening educational cooperation, cultural exchange and capacity building, while fostering long-term partnerships that contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.

PolyU x BOCHK “Building the Future: Robotics for the International Lunar Research Station” Lunar Robot Design Competition concludes successfully

PolyU has co-organised the space-themed programme PolyU x BOCHK “Building the Future: Robotics for the International Lunar Research Station” with the Education Bureau. The initiative aims to inspire secondary school students’ interest in space science and engineering, enabling them to put STEM knowledge in practice and nurturing future technology talent. One of the programme’s highlights was the Lunar Robot Design Competition, where secondary students were required to design scientifically grounded robotic solutions for exploration of the lunar south pole. The competition has received a total of 65 design proposals from students of 52 schools in the GBA. An award ceremony was held on 29 May 2026 at PolyU. The Lunar Robot Design Competition focused on four themes: Exploration and Surveying Robots, Construction and Infrastructure Robots, Astronaut Support and Logistics Robots, and Multi-Robot Cooperative Systems. After evaluation by a panel of PolyU aerospace experts and members of the Hong Kong Society of Astronautics, teams from Pui Kiu College, Good Hope School and Malvern College Hong Kong were named champion, first runner-up and second runner-up respectively. Prof. Bo WU, Associate Head (Research) of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, and Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, expressed his appreciation for the winning proposals, describing the students’ creative concepts as inspiring for the future scientific development of lunar exploration missions. Press release: English - https://polyu.me/4o26dLG; Chinese - https://polyu.me/4dCtvUH Online coverage: TVB - https://polyu.me/4wXerIX Now TV - https://polyu.me/4fMgwkC RTHK - https://polyu.me/4x47Yfs CRHK - https://polyu.me/4dArhVS Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/4ahdvoR Sing Tao Daily - https://polyu.me/4vfkczR (subscription required) Headline Daily - https://polyu.me/4dZFR8u Headline Daily - https://polyu.me/4ueQ5b2 Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/3S97wfC Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3Rut5qX; https://polyu.me/4wYhale; https://polyu.me/4x2Zipy Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/4o2Wogu Dot Dot News - https://polyu.me/4fgDz76 Yahoo HK - https://polyu.me/4ebFrwL 香港網絡 - https://polyu.me/4u10OFJ Headline for HK - https://polyu.me/4u850U9 Sina HK - https://polyu.me/4wYLSuC Shenzhen TV - https://polyu.me/4uBFFTJ Guangzhou Daily - https://polyu.me/4dGVBya HK01 - https://polyu.me/4uloMMa

LSGI Scholar praises Dr Lai Ka-ying’s quality

Prof. Bo WU, Associate Head (Research), Associate Director of the Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), and Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), was interviewed by Hong Kong Commercial Daily to praise the city’s first astronaut Dr. LAI Ka-ying for her exceptional psychological resilience and scientific literacy. He expressed confidence that she would successfully complete her space mission and return safely to Earth, and would go on to contribute to the development of Hong Kong’s aerospace innovation and technology sector. Online coverage: Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://polyu.me/4x1CWV8

PolyU research reveals snow droughts continue to threaten global food security and calls for climate-resilient agriculture practices to promote sustainable development

A research team, led by Prof. Shuo WANG, Associate Professor of LSGI, a core member of the Research Institute for Land and Space, and a member of the State Key Laboratory of Climate Resilience for Coastal Cities, from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has used innovative explainable machine learning to uncover the persistent negative impact of snow droughts on winter wheat yields. As warmer winters become more prevalent, insufficient snowfall leaves wheat vulnerable to frost damage and water stress, posing a major threat to global food security. The findings have been published in Nature Food. Over the past 60 years, the frequency of snow droughts across the Northern Hemisphere’s winter wheat croplands has risen sharply. The proportion of affected croplands surged from 46–54% in 1960–1970 to 70–99% in 2010–2020, indicating that snow droughts have evolved from a localised risk into a widespread phenomenon. The research team developed the XGB-SHAP model framework, which combines Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) with Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to quantify the direct impact of snow drought on yields while excluding interference from other climate factors. The study found that approximately 45% of croplands in the Northern Hemisphere experienced significant adverse effects, with Europe, Central Asia and the United States being the most severely affected. In East Asia, the yield benefits of longer growing seasons are diminishing, and the hydrothermal balance is becoming increasingly unstable. Prof. Shuo WANG noted, “As global warming continues, climate risks are no longer limited to ‘acute stressors’ such as heatwaves, but also include gradually accumulating and far-reaching ‘chronic stressors’ such as snow droughts. As winter wheat is a major commodity in global agricultural trade, the effect of its yield variability can ripple through global trade networks, driving up food prices and potentially leading to regional food security crises.” The research team recommends strengthening climate resilience by enhancing crop varieties, improving agricultural management, and incorporating snow cover monitoring into early warning systems. These steps will help maintain stable food production and steer global agriculture towards a more sustainable future.   Press release: English - https://polyu.me/4nOZhRH; Chinese - https://polyu.me/4u1BBv3   Online coverage: The National Tribune - https://polyu.me/4dNTZ4t Mirage - https://polyu.me/42YLSx2 Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/4e8weVZ Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3RKk4dd  

LSGI Scholar contributing to Nation’s Deep‑Space Exploration

Prof. Bo WU, Fiona Cheung Professor in Spatial Science, Associate Head (Research) of LSGI, and Associate Director of PolyU’s Research Centre of Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE), was interviewed to share his insights on Hong Kong’s role in the nation’s aerospace development.  He noted that as the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan calls for accelerating the building of a strong aerospace sector and explicitly supports Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T hub, Hong Kong researchers are eager to contribute their expertise. “PolyU teams have long actively participated in the country’s deep‑space exploration missions,” he said. “Seeing our research adopted at the national level has brought a strong sense of achievement and become a powerful motivation for us to continue contributing to the nation’s space programme.”  During the preparation for China’s Mars probe Tianwen‑1 landing, Prof. WU’s team was tasked with analysing a landing area roughly 11 times the size of Hong Kong’s territory. Using conventional imaging methods, the work would have taken more than six months. By applying artificial intelligence, the team reduced the processing time to less than three months, enabling the Zhurong rover to touch down safely on 15 May 2021.   Online coverage: Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/4oawzv3 Bauhinia - https://polyu.me/4wHXd1Y Tech Now - https://polyu.me/3PK58uY Hong Kong-Invest - https://polyu.me/3Rs3qiB 香港網絡 - https://polyu.me/4wOggI0 華人號 - https://polyu.me/4u2K4xP

PolyU project wins Bronze at Edison Awards for Hong Kong’s first GNSS signal quality monitoring platform

We are thrilled to announce that a collaborative project led by Prof. Wu CHEN, Head of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has won a Bronze Award at the prestigious 2026 Edison Awards. This marks the establishment of Hong Kong’s first GNSS signal quality monitoring and interference detection platform, a significant milestone for the city’s smart development. The award-winning project, titled “Hong Kong GNSS signal quality monitoring and interference detection system”, was developed in collaboration with the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM). It has earned the Bronze Prize in the “Public Safety, Security & Digital Integrity” category at the 2026 Edison Awards. This innovative system enables continuous monitoring of GNSS data quality, provides real-time alerts in case of malfunction, and detects and locates sources of signal interference. With global applicability, the system supports a wide range of critical applications, including civil aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and communication networks. It addresses Hong Kong’s need for reliable GNSS infrastructure, ensuring the safety and reliability of navigation and timing services across the region. The Edison Awards, established in 1987, recognise and honour outstanding innovations, products, and services that demonstrate originality, creativity, and advanced technology. Organised by the non-profit organisation Edison Universe, the awards are dedicated to promoting innovation worldwide. PolyU’s recognition at this level underscores the University’s consistent emphasis on research collaboration to develop key technologies for future advancement and translate them into practical solutions. Please join us in offering our warmest congratulations to Prof. Wu CHEN on this well-deserved international recognition. Learn more: Winners of Edison Awards 2026 Hong Kong GNSS signal quality monitoring and interference detection system (LSCM)