In a groundbreaking move, Beijing’s space agency announced in October 2022 that they were extending their astronaut recruitment to include Hong Kong and Macau for the first time. The selection process for two payload specialists saw over 100 Hongkongers apply, with 80 making it to the shortlist after a three-week recruitment drive.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu mentioned that the shortlisted candidates from the two regions would undergo further screening in Beijing, with representatives from various sectors such as government departments and universities being part of the selection process.
Highlighting the progress, China Manned Space Agency deputy director Lin Xiqiang expressed hope of seeing an astronaut from Hong Kong in the future. The agency’s effort to diversify its astronaut pool resonated with the 20 finalists from Hong Kong and Macau in the recent selection round.
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