On April 18, in celebration of the 10th Space Day of China, Hangzhou hosts a captivating space-themed science outreach event. The event was jointly organized by the Hangzhou Association for Science and Technology, the Hangzhou International Innovation Institute of Beihang University, and the Aerospace Information Research Institute.

Space Day of China has significantly increased public awareness and interest in aerospace and inspired a greater appreciation for science, especially among young people. This year’s Space Day of China celebrations offered especially exciting opportunities, including a chance for young artists to send their creations into orbit! A painting competition, themed “Wonderful Ideas Under the Starry Sky,” invited students to express their cosmic dreams through various art forms, including traditional Chinese painting, oil painting, and watercolor. The most exceptional works will embark on a unique journey to space aboard a recoverable satellite, and their creators will receive a special “space travel certificate.” Furthermore, these works will be featured on commemorative stamps.

Adding to the excitement, young attendees received two extraordinary gifts—gifts that had been to space and back. Student representatives at the event were presented with “space seeds” by distinguished guests, including Colonel Zhao Chuandong, one of China’s first-generation astronauts. These seeds, having been exposed to cosmic radiation in space, symbolize humanity’s enduring spirit of exploration. Now planted on school grounds, this gift from space is meant to inspire young minds, sparking their passion for science and encouraging them to be innovative and chase their dreams. 

The second gift was materials recovered from decommissioned spacecraft, generously donated by the Aerospace Information Research Institute to the Hangzhou International Innovation Institute of Beihang University. Leveraging its extensive resources and expertise, the Hangzhou International Innovation Institute will transform these materials into educational tools designed to inspire public enthusiasm for aerospace, spread knowledge about space exploration, and provide high-quality space science education, especially for young people in the community.