HKUST Congratulates First Hong Kong Payload Specialist Selected for Shenzhou-23 Mission
The China Manned Space Agency has announced the Shenzhou-23 crew, which includes Dr. Lai Ka-Ying, a payload specialist from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) expressed strong pride and congratulations, calling the selection a historic milestone for Hong Kong’s participation in national space exploration.
HKUST President Prof. Nancy Ip described Dr. Lai’s selection as a symbol of national trust in Hong Kong’s scientific talent and youth, noting that the achievement reflects Hong Kong’s growing role in China’s space development. She also highlighted the university’s long-standing contributions to space-related research and engineering projects.
A key highlight of HKUST’s involvement is the MUSICO (Multi-Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory), a high-precision carbon dioxide and methane detection payload developed by the university. Recently launched aboard Tianzhou-10, MUSICO has arrived at the Tiangong Space Station and represents Hong Kong’s first scientific payload deployed in orbit.
Project lead Prof. Su Hui emphasized that the mission demonstrates Hong Kong’s capability in both advanced space instrumentation and talent development, inspiring future generations to pursue STEM and aerospace careers.
HKUST reaffirmed its commitment to national space initiatives and innovation-driven development, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role in China’s broader goals in space technology, sustainability, and scientific advancement.
