On the afternoon of December 4, Gui Haichao, Chinese astronaut, payload specialist, and professor of the School of Astronautics at Beihang University, delivered a special lecture titled "Exploring the Mysteries of Space, Upholding the Spirit of Serving the Country through Aerospace Endeavors" at the Beihang Sunrise Concert Hall.
The lecture was attended by over 850 participants, including students from Beihang University and three affiliated schools—Yizhuang Branch of Beijing Jianhua Experimental School, Haidian RDFZ Branch School, and Beijing No. 4 High School. Representatives from the Student Affairs Office and Shen Yuan Honors College were also present.
The lecture began with attendees watching a recap video of the Shenzhou 16 manned mission. On May 30, 2023, astronauts Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao boarded the Shenzhou 16 spacecraft to travel to China’s Tiangong Space Station. During their mission, they conducted a series of scientific experiments, performed a Tiangong Classroom session, and completed numerous technical tasks. On October 31, 2023, the return capsule of Shenzhou 16 successfully landed at the Dongfeng Landing Site, marking the complete success of the Shenzhou 16 mission.
Following the video, Gui Haichao delivered his special lecture. He began by sharing the rigorous selection and training process for astronauts, detailed his experiences working and living aboard the space station, and provided insights into the future of China’s manned space program. He concluded his talk by encouraging students to align their personal growth with national development, nurturing their passion for the country’s space endeavors.
To express their respect and gratitude, two first-year students from Shen Yuan College presented abouquet to Gui Haichao. This gesture not only celebrated Gui’s personal achievements but also honored the legacy of the aerospace spirit.
As part of the lecture, Gui conducted a special interactive session called “Space Science Q&A,” where he posed questions related to space science to the students, enhancing their understanding of China’s aerospace efforts. The students actively participated, eagerly answering the questions. During the interaction, students also engaged with Gui, expressing their curiosity about life in space and asking about the unique experiences aboard the space station.
The event concluded with the melody of “My Motherland and I” echoing through the hall. Students and faculty waved Chinese national flags as they sang together with Gui Haichao. This emotional moment symbolized not only the inheritance of the aerospace spirit but also a heartfelt tribute to China’s aerospace achievements. The stirring melody resonated with love for the country and a steadfast commitment to the dream of space exploration, inspiring everyone to look forward to the brilliant future of China’s space endeavors.
Written by: Yue Jiaxuan, Cheng Bingchen
Reviewed by: Liu Kesheng
Edited by: Jia Aiping
Translated by: Lu Meili
