Author: GUO Naifei |
The Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, made a significant impact at the 16th Asia-Pacific Regional IAU Meeting (APRIM 2026), held from May 4 to 8, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. As one of the most influential astronomical conferences in the Asia-Pacific region, APRIM 2026 brought together nearly 600 leading scholars, experts, and industry professionals from over 40 countries and regions. Under the theme "Science, Cooperation and Friendship – Working Together Across the Asia-Pacific Region", CIOMP demonstrated its comprehensive strength in astronomical observation and space exploration through high-level academic contributions and a landmark technological exhibition.

Opening the institute's academic presence, Prof. ZHANG Xuejun, President of CIOMP, was invited to address the conference's opening ceremony and present a plenary talk. Prof. Zhang's address emphasized China's rapid advancements in space optical technology and CIOMP's role in driving international collaboration for cosmic exploration. His report provided profound insights into the institute's breakthroughs in next-generation space telescopes and astronomical instrumentation, earning widespread acclaim from the international astronomical community.


At CIOMP’s booth, a host of cutting-edge astronomical achievements were unveiled, attracting many international experts, scholars and enthusiasts. Highlights included:
- Tianlin Large Deep-Space Ultraviolet-Optical Observatory: A next-generation space observatory designed for deep-space exploration, targeting exoplanets and cosmic origins.
- Ultra-Large Aperture Segmented Space Telescope: A revolutionary 10-meter-class on-orbit assembly telescope, overcoming launch limits to enable unprecedented observational capabilities.
- Segmented Telescope Prototype: Core technologies enabling the construction of extremely large ground-based and space-borne observatories.
- High-Performance Large-Area Diffraction Gratings: Critical high-precision optical components for spectral analysis, representing world-class fabrication capabilities.
Complementing the institute's research, CHANGGUANG Group exhibited a suite of advanced industrial products:
- ADM200 + MDK500 Telescope Systems: High-performance general-purpose astronomical telescopes for research and education.
- Silicon Carbide (SiC) Ceramic Components: Ultra-lightweight, high-stiffness mirror substrates and structural parts.
- Magnetorheological Finishing Equipment: Precision optical fabrication technology for creating ultra-smooth surfaces.
- Advanced Optical Filters: High-end coatings for cutting-edge astronomical instruments.




The CIOMP pavilion emerged as a central hub for international exchange, attracting a constant stream of visitors for in-depth technical discussions. The exhibition successfully facilitated initial connections and cooperative discussions with numerous renowned astronomical institutions and universities worldwide. These interactions have laid a solid foundation for future in-depth academic exchanges, joint technological research, and collaborative projects between CIOMP, its affiliated enterprises, and the global astronomical community.
A highlight of the event was the Open Day, where hundreds of local students visited the CIOMP booth. The young visitors experienced the institute's state-of-the-art technologies up close. This initiative successfully ignited curiosity and passion for fundamental science and astronomical research among the youth, effectively planting seeds for cultivating future scientific and technological innovators in astronomy.
CIOMP's successful participation underscores its status in optical and astronomical technology. By combining cutting-edge research, industrial excellence, and a commitment to international cooperation and public education, CIOMP continues to push the boundaries of human understanding of the universe, while fostering the partnerships and talent essential for the future of space science.