CUHK
News Centre

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is delighted that Dr Lai Ka‑ying has become the first Hong Kong payload expert to join the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission. The University deeply appreciates the nation’s support for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Professor Jiang Liwen, CUHK’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor (External Affairs), said: “The nation’s remarkable success in its space programme is a huge pride for the people of Hong Kong, and it is an absolute honour for Hong Kong to play a part in it. The opportunity for a Hong Kong payload expert to conduct scientific research in space is not only a historic moment for the city, but also fully reflects the nation’s trust in and support for Hong Kong’s young people and scientific talent. I wish the Shenzhou-23 mission every success and a triumphant return.”

Professor Jiang added: “Hong Kong possesses the distinctive advantage of enjoying strong support of our country and being closely connected to the world, with a world-class environment for fundamental research. It serves as an important bridge for international collaboration, intellectual property protection and the promotion of scientific successes. Hong Kong has been actively involved in China’s aerospace development, providing systems, instruments and technical support for the nation’s lunar and Mars exploration missions, as well as conducting space-based experiments. Looking ahead, CUHK will continue to deepen interdisciplinary research collaboration, align with the National 15th Five-Year Plan, enhance the integration of innovation and technology resources between the Mainland and Hong Kong, and contribute fully to the nation’s goal of becoming a leading country in technological and aerospace developments.”

CUHK has long attached great importance to national aerospace research. In recent years, it has successfully launched CUHK Sat-1, the world’s first satellite incorporating a large AI model dedicated to supporting sustainable urban development; led the development of a laser heterodyne spectrometer selected for the national Tianwen-3 Mars mission and taken charge of the development of Tianwen-3’s core instruments; and developed rhizobia (soybean nitrogen fixing bacteria) and Longhuang Soybeans which became Hong Kong’s first agricultural research project conducted in space. These achievements demonstrate the strong capabilities of Hong Kong and CUHK in aerospace and biological sciences research.