-Purple Mountain-Comet Atlas- joint science observation event was held at the China Science and Technology Museum

On October 14th, 2023, the China Science and Technology Museum announced that it had successfully hosted a joint public observation event titled “Interstellar Messengers Fireworks” on October 13th. This event was organized in collaboration with various research institutions including the Zijinshan Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan Observatory, Xinjiang Observatory, the National Astronomy Observatory Xinglong Station, and the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory. Other partners included the Beijing Planetarium, Guangdong Science Center, Sichuan Science and Technology Museum, Ningxia Science and Technology Museum, Binzhou Science and Technology Museum, and the Astronomy Association of Hebei University of Technology.

During the live observation of the “Zijinshan-Atlas Comet,” attendees were treated to insights from distinguished experts such as Ma Yuehua, a researcher at the Zijinshan Observatory; Zhang Yugang, the Deputy Director of the National Museum of Nature; Qi Rui, Deputy Director of the Beijing Planetarium; and Liu Qiang, Director of the Museum at the Institute of Geology and Geophysics. The experts engaged in a scientific salon while observing the comet, discussing the cultural significance of comets throughout history, cutting-edge modern technologies, and the effects of small solar system bodies on life and humanity, providing a captivating educational experience for the public.

The main venue for the event was the China Science and Technology Museum, which hosted a joint observation along with five research institutions, six science popularization venues, and three colleges and universities. This collaboration allowed for live streaming to share the moment of the comet’s appearance with audiences nationwide. Observers from different latitudes and climates contributed their viewing signals, enabling the public to witness the breathtaking sight of the “Zijinshan-Atlas Comet” crossing the sky.

The joint public observation event captured significant attention from astronomy enthusiasts nationwide, showcasing the combined strengths of research institutions and science museums. Prior to the event, Guo Zhe, the director of the China Science and Technology Museum, presented “Scientific Pathfinder” volunteer certificates to the participating experts and scholars.