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John Cremer

The wonders of space exploration have always held a special thrill, and for some fortunate Hong Kong youngsters the chance to learn up-close about the science and operations behind a successful mission is no longer an improbable dream.
Thanks to a number of exciting initiatives, it is now possible to sign up for “astronaut training”, an eye-opening and character-building experience for every person who takes part.
The key elements typically include sessions to explain the principles of space flight, the technology used and different mission objectives.
But there may also be opportunities to visit a launch site and control centre, observe technical specialists as they carry out their work here on Earth, and even meet former astronauts.

One such initiative is the YF Life Jr Space Camp programme, which began in 1999 with the aim of offering simulated astronaut training for children from Hong Kong and Macau.
This was seen as a great way not just to ignite interest in space exploration and the science behind it, but also to foster desirable personal qualities such as self-confidence, creative thinking and resilience in overcoming unfamiliar challenges.
“We chose the slogan ‘It is Possible!’ which also embodies other core values – innovation, a positive mindset and perseverance – all of which are important for future success,” says Phoebe Lian, chief marketing officer and senior vice-president of the programme’s backers, the insurance company YF Life. “In addition, though, the programme was designed to provide a valuable opportunity for parents and children to learn and grow together, creating a shared experience that would strengthen their relationship.”
Since its inception, the programme has been commended by schools, universities and members of the wider scientific community. To date, more than 160 youngsters have taken part and each year new elements are added to keep things fresh and engaging.
This summer, the eight junior astronauts who make it through the selection process will embark on an immersive nine-day trip to the US. Accompanied by a parent, they will visit the US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, as well as the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
There will be a relatively intense period of simulated astronaut training drills, as well as meetings with astronauts who have been up into space.
Interested applicants – aged seven to 11, physically fit and at least 120cm tall – should first enrol online and then prepare for a three-round recruitment process. They will be asked to submit a two-minute video to introduce themselves and later on do an in-person presentation of a creative item reflecting the “It is Possible!” theme.
Candidates should have good communication skills in English and Chinese and be ready to answer a few questions about their knowledge of space exploration. For the 50 applicants who make the shortlist, there will be a preliminary local camp, accompanied by a parent, and an adventure-based learning course.
The 20 finalists will then be interviewed by the judges, and the best eight will be appointed as YF Life Jr Astronauts of the year.
“Candidates engage in a series of experiential activities and competitions over several months, which cultivates a spirit of perseverance and courage in overcoming challenges,” Lian says.
“And to spark greater curiosity about space exploration and advanced technology, last year we began to offer a free STEAM lesson for children eligible for the first round of the programme.”
The broader goal is to attract a steady stream of high-quality applicants, but also to help lay the foundations for future developments in this field in terms of building career options, business possibilities and further education.
“Taking part gave me the opportunity to go to places I had read about in books and learn from people such as Colonel John Herrington [a retired US Navy aviator and former Nasa astronaut who has walked in space],” says Alex Ngan, who joined the Space Camp in 2019. “Memories of seeing a Saturn V rocket and the launch pads are something I will never forget. Every day, those impressions and experiences compel me to keep working towards my dream of becoming an aerospace engineer.”
Another Hong Kong programme, offered by Star Club Scientist Education, gives young people the chance to play an active role in core practical activities linked to high-orbit satellite design, customised payloads and rocket launches for China’s space effort.
They learn about the fundamentals of aerospace technology and the key aspects of everything from design and manufacturing to pre-launch procedures and communication systems.

The programme is built around a series of research and exchange activities, which can include visits to rocket launch sites, space seed cultivation bases, ground stations for Mars-related projects, and the chance to talk with astronauts and their trainers. Another highlight is the chance to visit the China Aerospace Academy of Systems Science and Engineering (CAASSE) to fully appreciate the scale and ambition of what is the country is now attempting.
This year, attention is focused on the “Star Club 1” rocket project, which will carry a constellation of 15 satellites designed and named by Hong Kong schools, students and various enterprises. The satellites will be sent into a sun-synchronous orbit to carry out a range of space experiments in navigation, communications and remote sensing.
The project is planned and overseen by CAASSE, with Starlink Aerospace Holdings (Shenzhen) Co responsible for satellite production and launch operations, as well as on-orbit monitoring, servicing and operations.
Along the way, the Hong Kong students will work on different satellite payloads and study the laws of physics, astronomy, chemistry and life phenomena. They may also have some involvement with the technologies used for space flight verifications.
Those who excel may be invited to participate in more advanced aerospace research and development projects. Later on, there could even be opportunities for internships with aerospace companies as a further stepping stone towards careers in the sector.
“I want to become an aerospace engineer, specialising in the development of communication satellites,” says Chan Yi-tsung, a Form 5 pupil at the ELCHK Yuen Long Lutheran Secondary School.
“My dream is to contribute to lunar exploration projects and advance space research.”
For Primary Six student Lam Ho-yan, being part of the Star Club programme has brought an exciting new understanding of what science and technology can do.
“I never thought I would send a project into space,” Lam says. “It is amazing to see our ideas take shape and contribute to real aerospace innovations.”


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To the stars: junior astronaut training programmes spark interest in space from a young age

For children, learning up-close about space mission operations is no longer an improbable dream. Photo: Handout

Space Camp alumnus Alex Ngan. Photo: Handout

Children are taught the fundamentals of aerospace technology. Photo: Handout

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How parents and schools can work together to boost students’ progress, from field trips to talks

Parents and teachers can work together to help enhance a child’s progress in school. Photo: AIS

A good relationship between schools and parents has many benefits. Photo: AIS

The parent-teacher relationship plays an important role in a student’s development. Photo: AIS

Parents can work with their children to help achieve their goals. Photo: AIS

Parents’ involvement can include volunteering for field trips and giving talks. Photo: AIS

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Hong Kong children have a number of ways they can get involved with international space programmes, which offer them hands-on experiences


Hong Kong children have a number of ways they can get involved with international space programmes, which offer them hands-on experiences.
