In a landmark achievement for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Lai Ka-ying has been selected as a member of the country's fourth batch of astronauts. This milestone was highlighted on Saturday as Chief Executive John Lee extended his heartfelt congratulations to Lai, who will serve as a payload specialist for the upcoming Shenzhou-23 spaceflight mission.
Lai Ka-ying makes history as the first astronaut from the HKSAR to join the prestigious program. According to the China Manned Space Agency, her selection follows a rigorous training and evaluation process, underscoring her capability to contribute to the nation's expanding aerospace goals.
Chief Executive John Lee expressed profound gratitude for the trust and support extended to the HKSAR by the central government. He noted that Lai's achievement allows Hong Kong to contribute its unique strengths to the country's aerospace endeavors, inspiring a new generation of residents in the region to pursue excellence in science and technology.
The excitement is building as the countdown begins. The Shenzhou-23 crewed spaceship is scheduled to launch tomorrow, Sunday, at 11:08 p.m. (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center located in northwest China. This mission marks another significant step forward in the country's exploration of the cosmos and its commitment to scientific discovery.
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HKSAR chief executive congratulates Lai Ka-ying on Shenzhou-23 mission
cgtn.com
