By hannover-web.com On October 15th, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the National Space Administration, and the China Manned Space Engineering Office jointly released China’s first national medium- and long-term development plan for space science— “National Medium- and Long-Term Development Plan for Space Science (2024–2050)”— in Beijing, which has garnered significant attention.
In a specialized news conference held by the State Council Information Office, Academician Zhu Junqiang, Director of the Major Scientific Task Bureau of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, emphasized that this latest space science plan is set to amplify China’s voice on the international stage, positioning China as a major player in the realm of space science and a powerhouse in aerospace technology.
Zhu elaborated on the objectives of the “National Medium- and Long-Term Development Plan for Space Science (2024–2050),” specifically mentioning its focus on exploring the origins of the universe, space weather, and life itself. With the application of space science satellites and ongoing scientific investigations, this initiative aims to answer many of humanity’s unknown questions while driving significant technological advancements in China.
He explained that the Chinese Academy of Sciences has been deeply intertwined with China’s early efforts in aerospace, particularly since the inception of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” project, and has led subsequent developments in manned spaceflight, lunar exploration, planetary research, and space science investigations. Throughout the lunar and planetary exploration missions, the Chinese Academy has been among the foremost advocates, promotors, and key implementers of critical research endeavors.
Zhu highlighted that in the early 21st century, under the guidance of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the “Double Star Program” marked a breakthrough for China’s space science satellites, transitioning from “zero to one.” Since 2011, the Academy has also initiated the Space Science Pilot Program, successfully developing and launching a series of scientific satellites such as “Wukong,” “Micius,” “Einstein Probe,” and others, laying the foundation for China’s swift advancements in space science.
Discussing the promotion and application of space science research outcomes, Zhu noted that space science extends the limits of human understanding. This exploration into the unknown is sure to drive advancements in various detection methods and may even spark a new technological revolution, boosting productivity.
To effectively utilize these achievements for the benefit of the national economy, Zhu proposed several initiatives: First, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to deeply explore existing outcomes and uncover further results requires cooperative efforts from all stakeholders.
Second, collaboration among businesses, research institutions, and universities is essential to promote the practical application and transformation of these outcomes, finding suitable “landing spots” across various fields and industries.
Third, he emphasized the need for policy support and societal investment to collectively enhance focus on the conversion of scientific achievements in the capital market.
Fourth, promoting awareness and dissemination of these results is vital, particularly given the complex and challenging nature of space science. Effective promotion will help investors and companies understand and recognize these outcomes, ultimately serving society better.
Lastly, attention to intellectual property protection will create a conducive environment for transferring and transforming research achievements.
Overall, Zhu concluded that the successful promotion and application of these scientific outcomes will rely heavily on collaborative contributions from businesses, government, research institutions, and universities to drive the transfer and practical use of technological advancements.
