To promote the spirit of science and popularize knowledge of earth sciences and natural ecology, the Yifu Museum of China University of Geosciences carried out a series of science popularization activities including popular science lectures, touring exhibitions, book donations and quiz contests with prizes at the Zhangjiafan Campus of Macheng No. 5 Junior High School on September 28. The event was warmly welcomed by teachers and students of the school.
The activity specially invited Professor Xiao Long, a renowned Chinese planetary scientist, to deliver a high-quality popular science lecture on planetary science for more than 200 Grade 9 students and teachers. Titled Moon and Mars Exploration: An Introduction to China’s Lunar and Martian Missions, Professor Xiao started his talk with the mysterious outer space, the well-known science fiction novel The Three-Body Problem, as well as ancient Chinese poems about the Moon, illustrating humanity’s longing for and exploration of the starry sky. He then elaborated on China’s progress and remarkable achievements in deep-space exploration in recent years from four perspectives: an overview of space exploration, the Chang’e Lunar Exploration Program, the Tianwen Mars Exploration Mission and future exploration plans, supported by abundant pictures and detailed data. Drawing on his own experience participating in national deep-space exploration projects, he encouraged students to study mathematics, physics, chemistry and geography well, complete their studies excellently, stay grounded while looking up at the stars, and strive to take part in national strategic projects in the future so as to contribute to national development and national rejuvenation.
After the lecture, the Yifu Museum of China University of Geosciences and the Hubei Science Communication Association donated more than 20 popular science books of five categories to the school.
Stromatolites, Xiangxiia, sea urchins, nautiloids, ammonites, Jianghanichthys, dinosaur eggs… In front of the school teaching building, a touring popular science exhibition themed “Traces of Ancient Life” drew crowds of students, who stopped to experience, observe and explore. Long queues formed at the booth for fun geoscience quizzes, making scientific knowledge visible, tangible and memorable.
September is the National Science Popularization Month every year. Adhering to the coordinated development of scientific and technological innovation and science popularization as two complementary wings, the Yifu Museum of China University of Geosciences practices the philosophy of science popularization for the public. As a national science popularization education base, it organizes experts and young volunteers to deliver science lectures and set up exhibitions on campuses, in communities and villages. It brings geoscience popularization to the public and fosters a deep understanding of ecological civilization.
