China to highlight its lunar explorations, global cooperation on 10th Space Day

Decorative pins specifically designed for this year's Space Day events. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

China will mark its 10th Space Day on April 24 with a series of events, highlighting its lunar exploration achievements and international cooperation, according to the China National Space Administration.

The main activities, co-hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the space administration, and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, are scheduled to be held in Shanghai, with Thailand serving as this year's main guest country, the CNSA announced on Thursday.

At a news conference, officials from the CNSA, Shanghai authorities, and the Shanghai Industrial Collaborative Innovation Office unveiled plans for this year's Space Day events.

Officials published the event's trailer and promotional poster, which blends Eastern aesthetics with cyan-green ink-wash backgrounds. The poster features the Chang'e-6 lunar lander orbiting a full moon, symbolizing China's lunar exploration achievements, while a Long March rocket ascending alongside the moon forms the number "10", commemorating the decade-long Space Day tradition. Designed by Fang Xijie from Anhui province, the artwork also integrates AI-generated dynamic elements.

The events will include over 40 activities, such as an opening ceremony, an international conference on climate change, the China Space Conference, and public exhibitions. Key highlights include the debut of a space-themed film, announcements on lunar and deep-space exploration partnerships, and the presentation of the Qian Xuesen Outstanding Contribution Award.

From April 24 to May 5, the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center will host a space science exhibition featuring models, artifacts, and achievements in space technology, applications, and commercial space sectors. Notably, lunar samples collected by Chang'e 5 (from the moon's near side) and Chang'e 6 (from the far side) will be displayed together for the first time. Side events include the International Lunar Research Station Developers' Conference, the Second Lunar Sample Research Symposium, and industry forums on satellite internet systems in Shanghai's Pudong New Area.

About 41 countries, regions, and international organizations are expected to participate, alongside Chinese officials, academicians, and experts. Nationwide, over 650 events will be held across 30 provinces, including open days at space facilities, school lectures by space scientists, and broadcasts of space-themed films and educational programs.