China’s original space science achievements have begun to show a trend of multiple breakthroughs
On October 15, the State Council Information Office held a press conference in Beijing to introduce China’s medium- and long-term development plan for space science. The conference highlighted that China is witnessing multiple breakthroughs in its original achievements in space science.
At the event, prominent figures such as Academician Ding Chibiao, Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yang Xiaoyu, Director of the System Engineering Department at the National Space Administration, Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson for the manned space program and Deputy Director of the Manned Space Engineering Office, Zhu Junqiang, Director of the Major Science and Technology Task Bureau at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Wang Chi, Director of the National Space Science Center at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, provided insights into the development strategy and responded to reporters’ inquiries.
Wang Chi remarked on the significant progress made in China’s space science over more than 60 years. Initially starting from scratch, the field has expanded from limited accomplishments to a more robust framework. At the beginning of this century, China launched its first true scientific satellite, the “Double Star Program,” marking the beginning of a series of scientific satellites including “Wukong” and “Micius.” Additionally, the manned space program has conducted numerous scientific and application experiments, while lunar and planetary exploration projects have integrated scientific research with technological and engineering development.
These initiatives have propelled China’s space science into a rapid phase of innovation, leading to the establishment of a comprehensive disciplinary system within the field. Significant laboratories dedicated to space science have been built, and key organizations for various tasks have been established, showcasing China’s strong technological capabilities and support systems. This progress has also fostered a high-level talent pool in space science, resulting in internationally influential scientific outcomes.
Wang highlighted that China’s original achievements in space science are now showcasing several breakthroughs. For example, the “Wukong” satellite is conducting dark matter particle detection, while “Micius” has performed the first quantum science experiments in space. Additionally, “Einstein” represents China’s first space X-ray astronomical telescope, and the “Xihe” and “Kuafu” missions are also making strides in solar observations. The Chang’e 6 mission successfully completed the first-ever sample return from the far side of the Moon, while the Tianwen-1 mission marked the start of China’s Mars exploration. The Chinese space station has also been established as the country’s first space laboratory.
These endeavors significantly propel China’s scientists in fields such as dark matter detection, quantum mechanics validation, high-energy astrophysics experiments, and studies related to solar magnetic phenomena, lunar formation, Martian environments, and the behavior of matter and life in space. As progress continues, this deepens humanity’s understanding of the universe and positions China closer to the center stage of global space science.
Wang acknowledged that while China has fewer space science satellites compared to leading space nations and is still in the preliminary stage of producing landmark achievements, there is confidence and capability to catch up. Building on existing successes, the aim is to achieve the strategic goals outlined in the development plan: by 2027, China aims to be among the world’s top space science nations; by 2035, to rank in the international forefront in key areas; and by 2050, to lead globally in significant fields, establishing itself as a powerhouse in space science.
