An intravehicular space suit is seen at the "China Manner Space Exhibiition" in Hong Kong on Nov 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

Visitors to a high-level space exhibition that showcases China’s impressive 30 years of space exploration said that it has enabled them to better understand the latest developments of the nation and inspired the younger generation.

Inaugurated by a visiting high-level national aerospace delegation on Tuesday, the China Manned Space Exibition officially opened to the public on Friday and will run until February 18 next year. It is free for all Hong Kong and Macao residents.

Divided into two sections at the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History, the exhibition focuses on artifacts and history of China’s space missions.

The exhibition displays 25 sets of exhibits, including various models of carrier rockets, a replica of the China space station, and prototypes of upcoming manned lunar spacecraft. The highlight of the exhibition is the next-generation crewed spacecraft and lunar lander, providing a glimpse into China's ambitious plans for lunar exploration.

Chan Siu-mei, a 72-year-old Hong Kong resident, expressed pride in the country’s advancemes in space science and technology and says she intends to share her experience with her family, hoping to inspire younger generations

Ho Wing-sing, a 63-year-old retiree who visited with his wife, expressed excitement at having the opportunity to learn about China’s advanced space technology in person.

He had read about the exhibition in a newspaper and watched astronauts visiting the city on TV, which further fueled his anticipation. Ho said he hopes that more aviation talents from Hong Kong will have the opportunity to contribute to the space industry and believes that exhibitions like these can inspire the younger generation to pursue careers in aerospace.

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Chan Siu-mei, a 72-year-old Hong Kong resident, was drawn to the exhibition by its intriguing posters. She plans to spend half a day exploring the exhibits and was particularly impressed by the model of China’s manned space station — the largest low-Earth orbit research facility currently operated by China.

Chan expressed pride in the country’s advancemes in space science and technology and says she intends to share her experience with her family, hoping to inspire younger generations.

A woman takes photos of the return capsule of Shenzhou XIII manned spacecraft and the model of the Long March-2F carrier rocket at the "China Manner Space Exhibiition" in Hong Kong on Nov 29, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

Even kids as young as Lee Man, a primary one student, were enthralled by the exhibition.

“I hope that when I grow up, I will have the opportunity to witness a space launch in person. It would bring me immense joy if I could experience it firsthand.”

Keith Li, a Hong Kong resident accompanied by his eight-year-old daughter, diligently explained the exhibition’s content to her. She expressed the hope that more interactive experiences can be added into the exhibition, such as simulating the astronauts’ feeling of weightlessness, which will increase attractiveness to children.

Liu Xiao, who came from Hunan province with her 12-year-old son, said she sees the exhibition as an excellent opportunity to broaden her child's horizons

Visitors are not limited to local residents, many tourists have also been captivated by the displays. Liu Xiao, who came from Hunan province with her 12-year-old son, said she sees the exhibition as an excellent opportunity to broaden her child's horizons.

She has not specifically visited any space exhibitions on the Chinese mainland. Her son found this exhibition intriguing, especially the Long March carrier rockets.

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Several Hong Kong schools also arranged visits to the exhibition for their students, during which teachers carefully explained the models and shared insights about space exploration. The students enthusiastically asked questions, eager to learn more about space and astronautics.

Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong said on Friday that Hong Kong’s payload expert candidates have entered the final selection stage of a national recruitment drive. He stated that all Hong Kong residents hope that the candidates from the city will have the opportunity to realize their space dreams and contribute to the nation.

He mentioned that the selection of payload experts in Hong Kong for the first time demonstrates the nation’s deep affection, care, and support for the city. It also reflects the recognition and affirmation of the local technology sector by the country. The SAR government will continue to provide further support for educational and scientific research activities related to space technology.

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Wrapping-up a four-day visit that began on Tuesday, the high-level delegation from the nation’s manned space program left Hong Kong on Friday and headed to Macao via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge for a two-day visit over the weekend. Hong Kong officials held a farewell ceremony at Government House for the delegation.