Scientists hail HK's role in space research

From engineering equipment for lunar and Martian missions to sending its first astronaut to the nation's space station, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's growing contribution to China's space program has made the city an indispensable force in the country's space exploration journey, according to scientists.

Lai Ka-ying — China's first female payload specialist and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's first astronaut — and her fellow Shenzhou XXIII crew members Zhu Yangzhu and Zhang Zhiyuan, launched into space on Sunday night, headed to the Tiangong space station.

Lai will stay aboard the Tiangong for six months to conduct key scientific experiments.