Exploring the Stars With Hong Kong Space Museum Director Lawrence Lee

Lawrence Lee, museum director of the Hong Kong Science Museum and head of the Hong Kong Space Museum, sheds light on the educational work the latter institute is carrying out to pave the way for the next generation of aerospace engineers, scientist, astronomers and astronauts.

To enable local students to appreciate China’s extraordinary achievements in space technology and to inspire them to explore astronomy and space science, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department has been working with partners in mainland astronaut training and aerospace industry to arrange the Young Astronaut Training Camp (YATC) since 2009. Over the past 12 years, we have visited the Beijing Aerospace City, various satellite launch centers such as the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, and many other astronomy and aerospace facilities including the Xinglong Observing Station of the National Astronomical Observatories and the Lenghu Mars Camp.

Thirty local secondary school students are selected to join the YATC every year, and the training camp is jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce in association with the Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre. The training camp is implemented by the Hong Kong Space Museum and sponsored by the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce.

The YATC plays an important role in promoting the space industry of our city and paving the way for the younger generation as it offers local students a unique opportunity to visit China’s esteemed space facilities and engage with accomplished astronauts and pioneering space engineers. Acting as a vital conduit, it allows students with a keen interest in space to gain deeper insights into the current and future advancements of our nation’s space programmes. By providing a window into the realm of space exploration, the YATC dispels the notion that such endeavours are unattainable dreams for many young individuals. In fact, several past participants of the camp have pursued further studies in space-related subjects, a testament to the YATC’s power in igniting students’ passion and shaping their professional development and future careers.

In recent years, Hong Kong’s role in China’s space programmes has been steadily emerging, particularly as these programmes continue to grow in complexity and diversity. Hong Kong is home to numerous scientists and engineers actively engaged in space-related technologies, some of which have already made significant contributions to the exploration of the Moon and Mars. A significant milestone was reached in 2022 when our country initiated the recruitment of Payload Specialists in Hong Kong for the first time, highlighting the increasing importance of Hong Kong’s participation in China’s space initiatives. I firmly believe that our involvement in space exploration will continue to gain significance in the future.

To keep pace with the advancements in China’s space programmes, the Hong Kong Space Museum has taken proactive measures by organising a range of diverse educational programmes. Among these, YATC stands out as a remarkable initiative.  Moreover, we curate exhibitions, deliver lectures, host astronomy film screenings and conduct workshops that provide insights into the latest developments in China’s space programmes. The Hong Kong Space Museum is committed to serving as a platform, not only for local residents but also for visitors from around the world, to explore and appreciate our country’s remarkable achievements in space.

The pace of global transformation is surpassing our wildest imaginations. In my youth, it was difficult to fathom the ways in which we could actively participate in the space industry. However, the present offers a plethora of opportunities. For young individuals with a passion for space science and astronomy, there are numerous avenues to equip themselves for a future in this field.

Academically, a strong foundation in STEM subjects is vital. Dedication to studying these disciplines will provide a solid base of knowledge. Simultaneously, it is crucial for aspiring space enthusiasts to cultivate interpersonal skills and develop a broad international perspective. Effective communication within the scientific community relies heavily on these attributes. Above all, nurturing an insatiable curiosity is paramount. No single individual can ever hope to learn everything there is to know, but the pursuit of new knowledge is a lifelong endeavour. By fostering a strong sense of innovation, young people will become the architects of the future and discover opportunities where they can make significant contributions.