2019少年太空人體驗營

I always look up the sky from my bedroom hoping to see stars, but I always end up disappointed because usually I can only see solely one or even none due to light pollution. I’ve always wondered, “What is up there in space?” It seems so far, unreachable, and mysterious; and curiosity constantly pushes me to explore more about it. This summer, I was privileged and lucky enough to be given this opportunity of a lifetime to experience and learn about astronomy and aerospace science and technology through this nine-day trip.

There were so many unforgettable and memorable experiences during this trip. In this short but productive journey, we travelled to so many places across China, Guizhou, Beijing, Jiayuguan City, Xi An, etc. I visited places that I have ever expected to see, for instance the Five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical Telescope and the Xin Long Observatory Station which hosts so many telescopes with varying diameter. Through the descriptions and sharing of professionals, I have learnt so much more about space, about the stars I regularly look at.

Meeting with astronauts who have actually been to space was another magical experience. I looked up to them since I was young and have heard so much about them. Their perseverance, continuous effort, determination, bravery and sense of patriotism are all traits that I aspire to have, and I am truly inspired by them. It was my privilege to perform in front of Liu Yang, the first female astronaut of China. Going to Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre and visiting the facilities that real astronauts actually used made me feel like I was a step closer to understanding the mysteries of space. Every spot we visited opened my eyes more and broadened my horizons truly.

Of course, this trip wouldn't be as fun and exciting without the other participants! Each one of us has a common interest in astronomy, and I am so glad to get to know and meet all of these capable and eager learners. Through cooperating with my teammates during the Gala, my cooperation and communication skills had definitely improved, the performance wouldn’t have been successful without the commitment and hard work of every teammate. There were moments when I doubted myself and my abilities, but the other participants were constantly beside me and were always so encouraging and reassuring and were always ready to help me. I have learnt from every one of these unique and talented individuals and I feel so glad to get to meet and interact with them.

Last but definitely not the least, I would like to give my most sincere thanks to the team leaders and other staff members who always paid close attention to our safety and needs and were always so tolerant to our “once in a while” disobedience. Thank you so much for planning out such an amazing trip and giving me such a memorable summer.

I sincerely promise to share the knowledge I have attained through this journey to everyone. Hopefully, I will be able to fully utilise the things I have gained and make contributions to the society in the near future.