China’s Mars mission: Hong Kong scientists behind Zhu Rong landing demand more government support for aerospace research
- Polytechnic University researchers were tasked with developing an on-board surveillance camera for the Tianwen-1 Lander, and analysing potential landing sites
- Scientists appeal for greater backing of aerospace research in the city as they recount the challenges of the Mars mission
The Hong Kong scientists behind China’s Mars mission have called on the local government to provide more support for aerospace research in the city, as they recounted the technological challenges of making the landmark project a success.
They had been in a race against time to analyse all the rover’s potential landing sites, while also developing an on-board surveillance camera capable of handling extreme conditions.
Professor Yung Kai-leung, associate head at the department of industrial and systems engineering, said space technology was applicable to various areas of everyday life, while also paving the way for new inventions and driving innovation in the construction industry.
“We really hope the Hong Kong government can cooperate with the country’s development and push forward research on space technology,” Yung told a press conference.