On April 24, 2021, China celebrated its 6^th National Space Day. The Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) at the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) held an open day to celebrate this event. The activities attracted the attention of many faculty members, students, and space enthusiasts.

Xiaohua GAN, Chair Professor of MAE and Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), gave a lecture about aerospace. Chair Professor Yijun LIU, Head of MAE, Professor Guangming REN, Executive Dean of the Advanced Technology Research Institute at SUSTech, and Professor Weiwei DENG and Associate Professor Bo ZHOU, both of MAE, also participated in the event.

In his lecture, Xiaohua GAN explained the origins, current position, and future of aerospace technology. He spoke about China’s first artificial satellite, Dong Fang Hong 1, which was the first test satellite sent into space. He also spoke about milestones such as the first manned spacecraft sent into space, the first moon landing, and the first probe on Mars. He noted the significant importance of such events and that we should continue exploring the unknown.

In the visual teaching laboratory and aircraft simulation room, guests were able to wear virtual reality glasses and experience the feeling of being in space and also simulate flying in the sky.

The Aero Engine Laboratory, Aerospace Propulsion Institute, Intelligent UAV Laboratory, and the Advanced Aerodynamics and Aeroacoustics Laboratory also held a variety of interactive activities.