A view of the University of Hong Kong Zhejiang Institute of Research and Innovation in Lin'an district, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

The University of Hong Kong Zhejiang Institute of Research and Innovation (HKU-ZIRI) recently launched a lab for space research in QingShanhu Science & Technology City, Lin'an district of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province.

The lab, with a total investment of over HK$10 million ($1.28 million), is the first of its kind in QingShanhu Science & Technology City focusing on astronomy, earth science and planetary sciences.

As China has great market potential in the aviation industry, the lab is designed to advance the R&D of space science and other relative industries across the aerospace spectrum in China by integrating the governmental, capital and talent resources, said Professor Quentin Parker, director of the space lab and head of the Physics Department at the HKU.

In addition, a cooperative agreement was also signed between the lab and Zhejiang University (ZJU).

"The collaboration will be for the micro-satellite research center in ZJU," said Parker, adding that the HKU-ZIRI has aspirations to become a leading force in space and planetary science in Asia in the coming years.

Established in 2012, the HKU-ZIRI has developed a string of interdisciplinary professionals in seven major areas, including advanced material, intelligent manufacturing and clean energy.

The lab for space research of HKU-ZIRI signs a cooperative agreement with Zhejiang University on Dec 1. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]