On October 15, in an interview with reporters, Wang Chi, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and director of the National Space Science Center, shared some exciting updates about China’s space science advancements. He stated that China’s space science sector is now on an “express track” for innovative development, characterized by multiple breakthroughs in original research outcomes. This momentum indicates that China is moving closer to taking center stage on the global space science platform.
During a press conference in Beijing, the first national mid-to-long-term development plan for space science in China, titled “National Space Science Mid-to-Long-Term Development Plan (2024-2050),” was officially launched. Wang Chi provided insights into the plan while addressing questions from the media.
He highlighted that after over 60 years of development, China has made remarkable progress in space science, evolving from having virtually no capabilities to establishing a comprehensive framework. In the early 2000s, China successfully launched its first true scientific satellites as part of the “Double Star Program.” This success was followed by the development of a series of space science satellites, such as “Wukong” and “Mozi.” Additionally, China’s manned space program has conducted numerous space science and application experiments, further integrating science, technology, and engineering through lunar and planetary exploration initiatives.
The implementation of these projects has significantly accelerated China’s progress in space science, leading to the establishment of a coherent scientific discipline, key laboratories, and a robust infrastructure for conducting space science missions. Moreover, China has cultivated a high-level talent pool in this field and has achieved internationally influential scientific outcomes.
Currently, original scientific results in China’s space science are starting to demonstrate multiple breakthroughs. Notable achievements include “Wukong’s” detection of dark matter particles, “Mozi’s” pioneering quantum science experiments in space, and the “HTS” telescope, which is China’s first space X-ray astronomical observatory. Additionally, the Chang’e 6 mission achieved a historic lunar far-side sampling return, and Tianwen-1 has marked the beginning of China’s Mars exploration efforts. The completion of the Chinese space station has also established the nation’s first space laboratory.
Wang Chi emphasized that through these missions, Chinese scientists have made significant strides in areas such as dark matter particle detection, verification of quantum mechanics, high-energy astrophysical experiments, solar observation, and the study of lunar formation and evolution. These advancements deepen humanity’s understanding of the universe and emphasize China’s growing presence in the international space science arena.
However, he acknowledged that compared to other space powerhouses, China still has relatively few space science satellites and lacks a sufficient number of landmark achievements, placing the country’s efforts in the early stages. “Yet, we are confident and capable of catching up. Building on our existing successes, we will strive to achieve the strategic goals outlined in the ‘National Space Science Mid-to-Long-Term Development Plan (2024-2050),’ which aims for China to enter the world’s ‘top tier’ in space science by 2027, to be positioned among international leaders in key areas by 2035, and to attain a position of international leadership in important fields by 2050, ultimately becoming a strong player in global space science.”
