Hong Kong is to play a bigger role in the mainland's space programme.
The Chinese Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, or CASTC - the nation's lead space- exploration agency - announced on Friday that the city had been selected as one of four sites to host facilities as part of an expanded programme.
It is understood that rather than hosting launch facilities, Hong Kong will be used as a base for research and development of space and aerospace technologies.
The curator of the Hong Kong Space Museum, Chan Ki-hung, said it was exciting news for the city.
'I know some Hong Kong scientists have already taken part in the space programme, but I really do not know what they are planning to do here,' Mr Chan said.
The announcement said China planned to be a major player in the international aerospace and space-services industry within seven years.
