On June 6, Budapest buzzed with excitement as the Tiangong Lecture brought space exploration to life for Hungarian students. Through a live link-up, Shenzhou 20 astronauts aboard the orbiting Tiangong space station fielded questions ranging from daily routines to scientific experiments. Over 300 attendees—including officials, scientists, students and parents—gathered at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences to witness this unique exchange.
Organized by the China Manned Space Agency, the Chinese Embassy in Hungary and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, the event showcased how international collaboration and technology outreach can inspire the next generation of global citizens. Students asked about microgravity meals, exercise regimens in orbit and the challenges of living in zero gravity—topics that highlighted both the rigors and the wonders of life beyond Earth.
Data from recent education studies shows that hands-on engagement with researchers and astronauts can boost STEM interest by up to 60 percent among young learners. For Hungary’s students, this first-hand insight into China’s space program offered a window into the cutting-edge world of orbital science and innovation.
“This lecture isn’t just about answering questions,” said one student, “it’s a bridge between cultures and a spark for dreams.” As digital connectivity reshapes how we learn and collaborate, events like the Tiangong Lecture are a testament to the power of global dialogue in shaping tomorrow’s explorers, thinkers and changemakers.
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'Tiangong Lecture' bridges Chinese astronauts and Hungarian students
cgtn.com
