PolyU congratulates Hong Kong’s first payload specialist Dr Lai Ka-ying on Shenzhou-23 Mission Launch
Hong Kong is poised to make history as Dr. Lai Ka-ying, the territory's first payload specialist, embarks on a groundbreaking six-month space mission. On Sunday (24 May), Dr. Lai will join the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight and become the first Hong Kong researcher to set foot in China's orbiting space station Tiangong. As she conducts a series of space-based experiments during her six-month mission, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is thrilled to witness this momentous occasion and extend its warmest congratulations to her on realising her spaceflight dream.
PolyU is also deeply grateful for the nation's consistent support for Hong Kong's research development and nurturing of young talent. This milestone not only underscores the "One Country, Two Systems" framework but also marks a significant step forward in Hong Kong's innovation and technology development. As Dr. Lai joins the ranks of space explorers, her participation in this manned mission serves as a testament to Hong Kong's growing integration into national agenda, contributing meaningfully to the country's space exploration endeavor.
Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said: " This fantastic news marks a defining moment for our nation's space programme. As Dr. Lai takes up his new role, we can expect to see even greater strides forward in Hong Kong's connection to China's space programme. This milestone will surely inspire our younger generation to pursue their dreams in technology and innovation. Moreover, Dr. Lai's presence will allow every Hong Kong citizen to feel proud of our connection to China's space programme."
Hong Kong has been actively contributing to China's national space projects for years, leveraging a strong expertise in fundamental research to support our nation’s space missions ranging from lunar and Mars exploration, development of space-based experiments, as well as researches in materials science. Building on this foundation, the Hong Kong SAR Government established InnoHK as a major innovation and technology initiative to further Hong Kong’s aerospace research, which has further strengthened ties with the Chinese mainland. The 15th Five-Year Plan also presents opportunities for Hong Kong researchers to align with their national counterparts. Dr. Lai's mission further marks a significant turning point, elevating Hong Kong's aerospace research from ground-based support to on-orbit, in-space operations, and transitioning from a passive technical contributor to a deeply involved collaborator in China's space endeavors.
PolyU has a long history of participating in China's national space projects, with its researchers having played a key role in multiple missions spanning decades. Notably, PolyU's teams have been integral to several key missions, including the Chang'e and Tianwen series, contributing to humanity's first sample collection from the far side of the Moon with the surface sampling device developed for Chang'e-6. Additionally, PolyU has played a significant role in the development of the surface sampling device for Chang'e-5 and research on lunar soil samples. To advance its aerospace research, PolyU is committed to establishing the PolyU Aerospace Research Academy (PARA), which will focus on space resource development and aerospace applications. Furthermore, PolyU has jointly established The PolyU-CSU Joint Research Center for Space Manufacturing Technology with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, laying the groundwork for specialised additive manufacturing technologies for space manufacturing, high-precision spatial measurement, and related fields. As Hong Kong looks to the future, PolyU is also poised to deepen its research collaboration with China's space station, driving the translation of space-based experiments and leveraging Hong Kong's research strengths to make a meaningful impact on space exploration.
Beyond its research and innovation contribution, PolyU is dedicated to fostering the next generation of aerospace professionals through STEM education and talent development programmes. The University has developed a diverse range of space exploration-focused activities, including educational initiatives and competitions, which have attracted educators and students from across the Greater Bay Area. Moreover, PolyU offers master's programmes in aerospace-related fields and hosts exchanges with national space experts, inspiring young people to pursue careers in this dynamic industry. The launch of Dr. Lai's mission will energize Hong Kong youth to engage in innovation and technology, fostering a sense of national identity and cultivating a pipeline to nurture the next generation of leaders in this exciting field.
Looking ahead, PolyU will closely align with the national strategy for achieving greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, while seizing the opportunities arising from Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology hub. Building on its strengths in research and education, PolyU will continue to actively participate in the nation’s aerospace science and technology research and development. Through cutting-edge research, science popularisation, and talent nurturing, the University will serve the country’s overall development needs, contribute to building China into a leading space power, and further demonstrate Hong Kong’s distinctive role in the nation’s technological development.
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