Beijing, October 15 (China Radio International) - At a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on the morning of the 15th, Academician Wang Qi from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Director of the National Center for Space Science introduced that after more than sixty years of development, space science has made significant progress in our country. It started with nothing to having a presence across various fields, growing stronger over time.

Wang Chi mentioned at the beginning of this century when China launched its first true scientific satellite - 'Double Star Program'. This program initially formed a series of Chinese space science satellites represented by 'Wukong' and 'Mozi'. The manned space program conducted numerous experiments in both space sciences and applications, while lunar and planetary exploration missions achieved integrated development in science, technology, and engineering. Wang Chi stated: "The implementation of these tasks has propelled our country's space science into an innovative fast lane for growth; we have gradually established a disciplinary system within the field of space science, built key laboratories focusing on this area, formed comprehensive units responsible for overall spatial scientific missions, developed robust technical capabilities and support systems. We now boast high-level talent in space sciences who are producing significant international research outcomes."

"Currently, original achievements in China's space science have begun to show a trend towards multiple breakthroughs," Wang Chi pointed out. "Wukong is engaged in dark matter particle detection; Mozi has conducted the first quantum scientific experiments on a spatial scale; 'Huiyan' represents our country’s initial X-ray astronomical telescope for space, while Xihe and Kuafu are competing to observe solar phenomena." Additionally, Chang'e 6 achieved the world's first sample return from the moon's far side. Tianwen-1 initiated China's Mars exploration program, with Tiangong Space Station becoming a laboratory in outer space.

These missions have significantly advanced scientific research progress and achievements for Chinese scientists regarding dark matter particle detection, quantum mechanics testing, high-energy astrophysical experiments, solar 'one magnetic two bursts' observation, time-domain astronomy observations of high energy events, lunar formation and evolution studies, Martian environment and geological structure analysis, as well as the laws governing material movement and life activities under space conditions. These advancements have deepened human understanding of the universe while marking China's approach to becoming a central player on the world stage for spatial science.

Wang Chi noted: "Compared with global aerospace powers, our country still has fewer scientific satellites in operation; major landmark achievements are not as numerous and we remain at an early development phase. However, based upon current accomplishments, I am confident that China will catch up." He added that the goal is to achieve the 'three-step' strategic objectives outlined by The National Long-term Development Plan for Space Science (2024-2050), which aims for our country's space science entering a leading position globally in 2027, being among international leaders on key fronts by 2035 and becoming internationally top-tier across important fields by 2050.