China's high-quality development promises significant benefits for the future

In December 2024, the successful launch of the Macao Science-1 satellites marked a significant milestone in China's space exploration efforts. This program, which is a collaborative effort between the Chinese mainland and Macao, has been hailed for illustrating the advantages of the 'one country, two systems' policy. Chief scientist Zhang Keke emphasized that the program has made notable strides in geomagnetic studies and innovative applications that benefit sectors like aerospace and maritime navigation. The launch coincides with the announcement of the Macao Science-2 satellite project, further enhancing Macao's role in international space science. Macao Science-1 aims to gather high-precision geomagnetic data, crucial for understanding Earth's magnetic field and its protective role against solar particles. After over a year in orbit and completing 8,000 Earth orbits, the satellite has produced China's first WM³ 4D Earth magnetic field model. This model utilizes extensive data collected from the satellite, contributing significantly to various fields such as Earth's deep interior research and resource exploration. It reflects technological advancements enabled by scientific collaboration. The project has not only nurtured local talent but has also attracted international interest, with scientists from the United States, Germany, Spain, and other countries participating in research utilizing the satellite's data. Plans for Macao Science-2 include a constellation of satellites designed to provide comprehensive global coverage for geomagnetic observations, which is expected to elevate Macao's standing in the international space community. Overall, the achievements of the Macao Science-1 satellite project underscore China's commitment to high-quality development and innovation in the field of space science. The program is indicative of broader efforts to promote China's technological prowess while fostering international collaborations that can address complex scientific challenges and contribute to shared global knowledge.