CE congratulates Hong Kong payload specialist candidate on being selected as one of country's fourth batch of preparatory astronauts
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The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said, "This is the first time that a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) citizen has been selected as a preparatory astronaut, specifically a payload specialist, under the National Manned Space Programme after an extremely rigorous selection process. The payload specialist may have the opportunity to conduct scientific research in space and contribute to the country's aerospace development. This writes glorious history for the Hong Kong SAR and makes the whole of Hong Kong proud."
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Central Government for its care for Hong Kong and for the opportunity for Hong Kong people to take part in the recruitment exercise. The selection of a Hong Kong citizen as a payload specialist signifies the distinctive role that Hong Kong plays under 'one country, two systems' through having the opportunity to take part in the national space programme. The selection of the first ever preparatory astronaut from Hong Kong also illustrates the importance the country has attached to the innovation and technology (I&T) development in Hong Kong, as well as its recognition of the capability of our I&T talent. Furthermore, it showcases the determination and perseverance of Hong Kong's young people in striving to make their dreams come true. The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to implement a series of measures to nurture more research talent, with a view to supporting Hong Kong's development as an international I&T centre and contributing to the country's development into a nation that is strong in science and technology. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong SAR Government will render full support to the payload specialist and the family members for contributing to this mission of national glory," the Chief Executive added.
In the second half of 2022, the country launched the recruitment exercise of the fourth batch of preparatory astronauts, and the selection of payload specialists took place in the Hong Kong SAR for the first time. The recruitment comprised three phases, namely preliminary screening, second round, and final round of selection. The fourth batch of preparatory astronauts will later receive training at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center. Payload specialists are a category of astronauts classified by types of missions. They are professional scientific researchers who carry out scientific and applied research in space stations.
Ends/Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Issued at HKT 18:03
Issued at HKT 18:03
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