A HONG KONG PLANETARY SCIENCES OUTREACH PROGRAM LED BY DES STAFF
A planetary sciences outreach program, led by DES staff Prof. Zhonghua Yao, was launched in collaboration with the Yew Chung Yew Wah Education Network (YCYW). A kick-off event was held on October 14, 2024 at DES, HKU, where the (interim) Head of the Department, Prof. Zhonghui Liu, extended a warm welcome to the teachers and students visiting the department. Prof. Yao gave an introductory presentation on planetary sciences, emphasizing the integration of research and high school education in auroral and meteorite sciences.
Through fruitful discussions at the event, three research projects were designed for the YCYW students: (1) "Use Aurorae to Diagnose Space Energy Processes," led by Dr. Junjie Chen; (2) "Space Station Images to Understand 3D Aurorae," led by Dr. Xiangsong Wang; (3) "Mercury Geology and Water Origin," led by Mr. Yuan Yu. The YCYW students will explore these research topics under the supervision of HKU planetary scientists through the program. This outreach program signifies a significant step to foster broader and deeper interests in planetary sciences among secondary school students and enhance science education in Hong Kong.
