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A female Hong Kong police officer has been selected as Chinese payload specialist

· News

Since October 2022, China has announced the initiation of the selection process for the 4th batch of astronaut candidates, which for the first time includes the selection of payload specialists in Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong residents to participate in the national manned space program. The selection process is nearing its conclusion, with the results expected to be announced in the near future.

The selection of the 4th batch of astronaut candidates is expected to recruit 12 to 14 people, including 2 payload specialists. The HKSAR government received applications from 120 candidates, the majority of which were professionals. Among the applicants, 50 were from the University of Hong Kong, 22 were from government-supported R&D centers and the Productivity Council, as well as research institutions and companies from the Science Park and Cyberport. There were also candidates from government departments, the Hospital Authority, and other research institutions and companies. The professional backgrounds of the applicants covered fields such as biology, medicine, biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, physics, materials science, chemistry, psychology, and astronomy.

After the health check and other procedures, around 40 people have advanced to the initial selection, and the HKSAR government will recommend a list to the central government. Subsequently, more than 10 people will enter the final selection, and ultimately one or more will proceed to the "final selection" stage. The identity and background of the payload specialist have been kept confidential until the news revealed that a female police officer from the Hong Kong Police Force has been selected as the payload specialist. The payload specialist will be responsible for conducting scientific and applied research experiments during space missions, including carrying out space experiments/trials, operating and using space experimental equipment, and collaborating with other astronauts in daily station management.

The China Manned Space Agency previously stated that after the 4th batch of astronaut candidates join the program, there may be an opportunity for a Chinese to land on the moon, which could potentially involve Hong Kong astronauts. Currently, the China Manned Space Agency will inform the HKSAR government of the specific selection results for the Hong Kong and Macau regions in a timely manner. The details of the payload specialist's work and other relevant information will be officially announced by the relevant authorities.

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