How Hong Kong’s first astronaut triggered a space education race
Hong Kong’s first astronaut, Lai Ka-ying, has fueled a surge in aerospace education interest, with inquiries for related courses tripling at a learning center. Industry leaders propose repurposing local infrastructure into immersive aerospace education and tourism hubs to capitalize on growing public enthusiasm.
Lai Ka-ying, Hong Kong’s first astronaut and China’s first female payload specialist, launched into space aboard the Shenzhou-23 mission on Sunday. Her historic achievement has triggered a sharp rise in demand for aerospace and satellite-design courses, with Star Club Scientist Education reporting over threefold more inquiries than usual. Jeffrey Ho, CEO of Star Club Scientist Education, noted that schools and parents are increasingly seeking aerospace science education for children aged 3 to 17. Course fees range from HK$300 to HK$650 per hour, covering topics like satellite design and microsatellite assembly. Industry leaders like Chan Wing-ping, general manager of Starlink Aerospace Holdings (Shenzhen), argue Hong Kong lacks large-scale aerospace educational venues. She suggested converting local infrastructure—such as cruise terminals or vacant school buildings—into immersive learning centers with satellite observation stations and rocket displays. Yu Hongyu, executive director designate of Polytechnic University’s Aerospace Research Academy, urged authorities to align Hong Kong’s aerospace development with China’s 15th five-year plan. He called for expanded government support, including dedicated research funds and integration of aerospace education into primary, secondary, and university curricula. Experts emphasize translating current public excitement into long-term policy investments to position Hong Kong as a hub for commercial aerospace innovation.
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