From Space to Bloom
In 2002, the Chinese mainland’s Shenzhou-3 crewed spacecraft carried 200 peony seeds into space, orbiting Earth for six days and 18 hours. Two decades later, in Heze City – renowned as the peony capital of the Chinese mainland – those seeds have blossomed into 400 magnificent "space peonies."
Today, these blooms captivate with vibrant petals that seem to echo the mysteries of space. Their colors range from gentle pinks to bold crimsons, creating a celestial palette that brings together the charm of nature and the marvels of exploration.
In Baihua Garden, CGTN's Li Yiqing explores the story behind these extraordinary flowers, offering an intimate look at how a daring space experiment transcended time and gravity to inspire a natural spectacle. The space peonies stand as a testament to the fusion of scientific innovation and nature’s resilience, sparking wonder among science enthusiasts, art lovers, and adventurous explorers alike.
This unique journey from seed to bloom reminds us that even the most unexpected ventures can yield breathtaking results, uniting cultures and igniting the curiosity of a globally connected audience.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
