Astronaut chat to be arranged in months: tech chief

Technology minister Sun Dong on Sunday said a real-time chat between Hong Kong residents and the city’s first astronaut Lai Ka-ying could be arranged in one to two months at the earliest. Speaking on a Commercial Radio programme, he said the government is in talks with mainland authorities to arrange the chat soon. “The response from all sectors has been very enthusiastic. We initially planned to arrange the chat for students, but we’ve received a lot of feedback, saying other youngsters in the community and Lai’s colleagues all want to talk to her. So we are stepping up our coordination efforts,” Sun said. “Regarding the details, I believe relevant departments will make proper arrangements that satisfy everyone.” Sun said Hong Kong would continue to use its strengths in technology research and international exchanges to serve national needs. Meanwhile, Sun said the government also planned to develop marine technology in conjunction with the city drafting its own five-year plan for the first time, adding the country is looking to develop the marine economy. “For emerging directions in the future, we plan to include marine technology. This includes marine intelligence, marine equipment, underwater robotics, electric vessels, unmanned surface vehicles, as well as smart ports and shipping, which are crucial for consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a shipping hub,” he said. “There is also potential for smart fisheries, which would contribute to Hong Kong’s diversified economic development in the future. So we are actively considering these development directions.” Sun added the SAR would also continue its existing research efforts in life and health sciences, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and new energy capabilities. Edited by Tony Sabine