From over 380,000 kilometers away on the moon’s far side to the bustling exhibition halls of the 15th Airshow China, a fragment of lunar soil captivated countless visitors in Zhuhai last week. Brought back by the Chang’e-6 lunar mission, the 75-milligram sample, prominently displayed alongside the mission’s returning capsule and parachute, stood as a powerful symbol of China’s growing prowess in space exploration.
The exhibit, organized by the China National Space Administration (CNSA), showcased the nation’s impressive achievements in space technology. It also highlighted the strength of international collaborations in the exploration of the cosmos. Zhang Tao, an official from CNSA, called the display a “vivid connection between China’s ancient celestial aspirations and modern technological milestones.”
China’s moon missions, named after the mythical goddess Chang’e, embody centuries-old dreams of reaching for the stars. The tangible grains of lunar soil symbolize how far the nation has come in making those dreams a reality.
Tsang Cheung Sam, a visitor from the Macao Special Administrative Region, expressed his pride at witnessing the lunar sample in person. “Seeing this soil, alongside advanced planes and rockets, filled me with immense pride for our nation,” he said.
Tsang also reflected on China’s growing role in space exploration, marveling at the Tiangong space station orbiting Earth. “As a child, I would hear about the International Space Station, and now we have our own. It feels like a dream come true.”
While the lunar sample captured imaginations, China’s latest advancements in space logistics were equally impressive. On Friday, the country launched the cargo craft Tianzhou-8 to deliver supplies to the Tiangong space station.
In a further testament to innovation, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) unveiled the Haoloong reusable winged space cargo vehicle during the airshow. This cutting-edge shuttle boasts the ability to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, fly horizontally, and land at designated airports, offering an airline-like operational model. Wu Jiwei, an AVIC spokesperson, highlighted its potential to significantly reduce the costs associated with space transportation.
“Haoloong marks a new starting point for AVIC to leverage its aeronautical expertise in developing commercial aerospace products,” Wu stated.
The airshow was not solely focused on space. It also highlighted the burgeoning low-altitude aviation industry, showcasing innovations that ranged from manned airships to electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
AVIC demonstrated its civil manned AS700 airship, securing orders for 10 units and signing intent agreements for 164 more. One notable sale occurred online during China’s annual “Double 11” shopping festival on Taobao, a move that reflects the growing interest in this technology.
Cheng Xiong, chairman of Jingmen Urban Construction Investment Holding Group Co., Ltd., a purchaser of the airships, outlined their initial use for low-altitude tourism. “Passenger feedback and studies among scenic areas show strong enthusiasm for these operations,” Cheng said. The AS700 airship will also see applications in aerial photography, urban inspections, and other creative scenarios.
Another standout at the airshow was the debut of Aerofugia’s AE200, a manned tilt-rotor eVTOL aircraft. Developed by the Geely Auto subsidiary, the AE200 represents a significant step forward in low-altitude aviation.
Painted in sleek white, black, and yellow, the aircraft attracted a steady stream of visitors who examined its charging station, cockpit, and innovative design. Aerofugia announced the batch production version of the AE200, backed by an initial order of 100 units from Sino Jet, a prominent business aviation firm.
Aerofugia’s CEO, Guo Liang, emphasized the transformative potential of eVTOLs in urban mobility, aerial sightseeing, and emergency response. “By 2025, we plan to begin manned verification flights. The AE200 will play a vital role in shaping the future of urban transportation,” Guo stated.
Guo, recently honored as “Person of the Year” at the 16th China Aerospace Laureate Awards, underscored the rapid pace of innovation. “From the Wright brothers’ first flight to landing on the moon, technological progress continues to accelerate. Dreams that seem impossible today can become reality tomorrow.”
China’s low-altitude airspace is becoming increasingly active. At the Low-Altitude Economy Pavilion, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and aviation enthusiasts marveled at the advances in eVTOL aircraft and other technologies.
Hou Yi, senior product manager at Aerofugia, predicted a surge in electric aircraft usage. “In the future, skies will be filled with electric aircraft, revolutionizing the way we think about air travel,” he said.
Public interest in aviation innovations was palpable throughout the airshow. From awe-inspiring displays of military aircraft to interactive exhibits, the event underscored China’s dual focus on inspiring its people and pursuing commercial success.
For example, AVIC’s focus on integrating its aeronautical expertise into commercial projects like the Haoloong shuttle and AS700 airship aligns with China’s broader vision of developing a robust aerospace economy.
In the civilian sector, Aerofugia’s partnership with Sino Jet illustrates a commitment to making eVTOLs commercially viable. These vehicles are envisioned to ease urban congestion, offer unique sightseeing experiences, and facilitate lifesaving missions.
The 15th Airshow China was not merely a showcase of technology but a reflection of China’s aspirations as a global leader in space and aviation.
As China pushes forward with lunar missions, such as the anticipated Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8, its commitment to advancing space exploration continues to grow. Meanwhile, innovations in reusable spacecraft, low-altitude aviation, and urban air mobility suggest that the country is laying the groundwork for a new era in both civilian and commercial aerospace industries.
