At least one payload expert from HK could enter China’s final astronaut selection

At least one payload specialist from Hong Kong would be among the candidates in the final selection of the nation’s fourth round of astronaut recruitment, according to Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry Sun Dong.

The government official told a newspaper interview published Monday that 120 people from Hong Kong have signed up for the recruitment drive after the China Manned Space Agency announced in 2022 that it was recruiting 12 to 14 reserve astronauts for space missions, with two payload specialist positions open to candidates from Hong Kong and Macau for the first time.

Sun said around 40 advanced to the preliminary round, with more than 10 proceeding to the second selection. He expressed confidence that at least one person from Hong Kong would enter the final selection, pending the agency’s announcement.

Meanwhile, the technology chief also commented on the recent cyber attacks on government departments and public organizations.

He believed that this is a phenomenon and problem encountered during the development of the digital economy, and that he remains undeterred.

Sun emphasized the importance of identifying shortcomings and stepping up efforts to plug loopholes. He also mentioned that the upcoming Digital Policy Office will formulate relevant policies, establish clearer guidelines for data collection and processing, and address risks related to personal data protection.