Hong Kong's first astronaut to chat from space in 2 months
Lai Ka-ying will speak from Tiangong space station in July-August 2026
Hong Kong’s first astronaut Lai Ka-ying is set to conduct a public dialogue from the Tiangong space station within the next two months, announced Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong. Speaking on a radio program, Sun confirmed that arrangements are underway to facilitate a live interaction with Lai, who blasted off last month aboard the Shenzhou-23 mission. Initially, the dialogue was planned as a ‘Tiangong classroom’ session for local students, but demand from multiple sectors prompted an expansion of the event.
The upcoming session marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong, as Lai is not only the city’s first astronaut but also China’s first female payload expert and the country’s fourth woman in space. Sun Dong added that the city may also develop a new strategy to better align with China’s broader aerospace development goals. Further details about the dialogue, including the exact date and platform for participation, are expected to be announced soon.
- Lai Ka-ying, Hong Kong’s first astronaut, will host a public dialogue from the Tiangong space station within two months (July-August 2026).
- The session was originally planned for students but expanded due to high demand from other sectors.
- Lai is China’s first female payload expert and the country’s fourth female astronaut.
Why It Matters
Opportunity for Hongkongers to engage directly with the city’s first astronaut, inspiring STEM interest and national pride.