As 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of China’s space program and the 11th China Space Day, the School of Astronautics organized a wide range of themed events on April 24 to celebrate the occasion. Activities included collaborative mural painting, a starlight fair, model aircraft demonstrations, aerospace science lectures, online outreach programs, and interactive campus events. Faculty members, students, and aerospace enthusiasts from across the community came together to experience the spirit and excitement of China’s aerospace endeavor.

The day began with a solemn flag-raising ceremony in the square before the Electrical Engineering Building. As the national flag rose in the morning light, faculty and student representatives stood in respectful silence, paying tribute to the 70-year journey of China’s aerospace industry and reaffirming their commitment to the nation’s ambition for space exploration.

The “Set Sail Cup” Aerospace Science Knowledge Competition attracted enthusiastic participation from students, who demonstrated both creativity and expertise in topics ranging from the history of aerospace development to cutting-edge technologies, lunar exploration, and interstellar missions. Through the competition and interactive exchanges, participants deepened their understanding of aerospace science and technology. Professor Li Chuanjiang also delivered an engaging public lecture on aerospace science, inspiring greater interest in studying and supporting the aerospace sector.

At the stadium on the main campus, the Aviation Model Association staged a spectacular flight demonstration featuring a series of technically demanding aerial performances. The show included fixed-wing aircraft releasing miniature loitering-munition-style drones in flight, airborne rocket launches, and smoke-trailing aerobatics by paper-airplane-shaped drones. The precision maneuvers and dynamic displays drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Students gathered outside Building 2H of the Science Park to create a large aerospace-themed mural measuring 25 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Through vivid colors and collaborative artistic expression, the project combined scientific aspiration with artistic creativity, presenting a distinctive vision of aerospace culture at HIT.

A youth academic salon held at Dormitory A20 focused on issues related to space debris. Through background presentations, academic reports, and discussion sessions, students exchanged ideas and explored new perspectives, contributing youthful insight to future aerospace development.

The School’s Laboratory Open Day welcomed students from across the university to visit participating laboratories and learn about ongoing research projects and representative achievements. Through hands-on and immersive experiences, visitors gained a closer understanding of aerospace science and technology.

The online aerospace science course Reaching for the Moon Beyond the Clouds connected more than 3,000 students from primary and secondary schools affiliated with graduate teaching support programs and partner schools. Delivered through virtual classrooms, the program introduced aerospace knowledge to younger students and promoted the continued transmission of aerospace spirit and scientific curiosity.

An immersive aerospace-themed role-playing mystery game invited students to take on the roles of interstellar explorers in a fictional “Jupiter Pioneer” storyline. Participants solved puzzles, followed clues, and navigated an evolving narrative while experiencing the mystery and vastness of outer space through interactive storytelling.

At the “Seventy Years Through the Lens” film screening event, students and faculty watched the documentary Moonbound, which focuses on the Chang’e-6 mission and portrays the real working lives of aerospace professionals. The screening offered audiences a deeper appreciation of the dedication and perseverance behind China’s space achievements.

Students from aerospace schools of the seven universities administered by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology gathered online for discussions on Party branch development, research commercialization, and innovation in ideological and civic education practices. Participants exchanged experiences and explored new approaches to fostering high-quality talent through strong Party-building initiatives.

As night fell, the campus transformed into a lively aerospace-themed festival space. The Starlight Fair featured interactive games, aerospace trivia challenges, and limited-edition prize exchanges. Students and faculty participated enthusiastically, enjoying the festive atmosphere and hands-on aerospace-themed activities.

The Space Day gala, themed “Seventy Years Reaching for the Heavens, Together Toward the Stars,” was held in Room 301 of the Student Activity Center. Featuring performances including singing, dance, martial arts, and instrumental music, the program highlighted the aspirations, dedication, and sense of national responsibility shared by generations of aerospace professionals. Through artistic expression, the event inspired students and showcased the enduring vitality of aerospace spirit.

The astronomy observation event “HIT’s Starry Sky” was held in the square before the Electrical Engineering Building on the main campus. Organized by the Astronomy Enthusiasts Association, the event invited students and faculty to observe the night sky through professional telescopes. Participants viewed the first-quarter moon in detail, identifying lunar maria, craters, and the boundary between light and shadow on the lunar surface, while experiencing the fascination of astronomy and the spirit of aerospace exploration.

The wide range of themed activities brought aerospace culture closer to students and the public, promoted scientific knowledge, and inspired continued enthusiasm for space exploration. Together, the events created a vibrant and memorable atmosphere for China Space Day, reflecting the School of Astronautics’ commitment to fostering aerospace spirit and innovation among younger generations.

Videos, Photos and Text: Youth League Committee of the School of Astronautics

一审：宋子畅

二审：陈东萍

三审：智喜洋