On 8 March this year, the State Council approved the creation of Chinese Aerospace Day, to be observed on 24 April each year. The Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), celebrated by opening its doors to the general public and showcasing several high-tech exhibits. In addition, a number of popular science lectures revealed a selection of remarkable achievements in scientific research to the throngs of visitors.

To mark the first Chinese Aerospace Day in 2016, the provincial Department of Industry and CIOMP jointly organized a series of popular science activities, which also marks the second open day celebrating CIOMP’s International Optoelectronic Innovation Cluster.

With “Scientific and technological innovation, dreams of the future” as the guiding theme, the activities included six interactive displays comprising a special report by CAS academician WANG Jiaqi, a Seed of Light lecture series, a visit to the State Key Laboratory, an immersive optical and light-based technology experience, a research aerospace exhibition, and a demonstration of innovation and entrepreneurial achievements.

Scientific staff engaged with the public by explaining scientific concepts and methods in plain language, thus bridging the gap between the public and science and technology. Child-friendly materials enabled many younger participants to understand and be amazed at CIOMP’s research activities. Following on from the success of this year’s event, CIOMP looks forward to celebrating Chinese Aerospace Day annually.

Academic report(Image by CIOMP)

Research aerospace exhibition(Image by CIOMP)

Demonstration of innovation(Image by CIOMP)