An asteroid discovered by China's Purple Mountain Observatory has been officially named after Qi Faren, a trailblazing figure in the nation's space technology sector, as announced by the China Academy of Space Technology this week.
Celestial Recognition for Earthly Achievements
The International Astronomical Union recently approved the designation of asteroid 336877 as "Qi Faren" during a ceremony celebrating the scientist's six-decade career. Qi played pivotal roles in China's early satellite programs, including the historic Dongfanghong-1 launched in 1970, and later spearheaded development of the Shenzhou spacecraft series that enabled China's current space station operations.
From Satellite Dreams to Cosmic Legacy
Beginning with the Dongfanghong-2 and Dongfanghong-3 projects, Qi's engineering leadership helped establish China as a space power. His work as chief designer of the Shenzhou program directly contributed to the success of crewed missions that now regularly dock with the Tiangong space station.
"This honor reflects the global recognition of China's aerospace achievements," stated a representative from the China Academy of Space Technology during the naming ceremony.
