In a historic moment for the region, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has reached a new frontier in space exploration. On Sunday night, the Shenzhou-23 crewed spaceship successfully launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, signaling a leap forward in national aerospace achievements.
John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, warmly extended his congratulations on the mission's success. In a heartfelt tribute, Lee sent his best wishes to the crew, emphasizing the profound pride felt across the region.
The mission is particularly significant as it features Lai Ka-ying, the first payload expert from the HKSAR and the first astronaut from Hong Kong to participate in a national space mission. This inclusion marks a transition for Hong Kong from being a "supporter" of aerospace endeavors to an "executor," demonstrating the region's growing capability to contribute directly to the country's strength in space technology.
The spacecraft was propelled by the Long March-2F carrier rocket, which launched at 11:08 p.m. (Beijing Time). Following a precise ascent, the spaceship successfully separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit.
Chief Executive Lee noted that this mission holds great importance as the first manned spaceflight during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. He highlighted that the achievement showcases how Hong Kong is better integrating into and serving the overall national development goals.
For the residents of Hong Kong, the mission is more than a technical achievement; it is a source of immense pride and a testament to the region's expanding role on the global and national stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
