University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Establishes School of Space Exploration
According to a report by the People's Daily, on the morning of January 27, 2026, a plaque unveiling ceremony for the School of Space Exploration was held at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), marking its official establishment. The next 10 to 20 years represent a critical window for leapfrog development in China's interstellar navigation sector. Breakthroughs in foundational research for original innovation and technology are expected to reshape the landscape of deep space exploration and profoundly impact national competitiveness. The establishment of the school is a key strategic move by UCAS to secure a commanding position in science and technology and to cultivate talent in the field of interstellar navigation. It aims to provide talent support for national strategic needs such as deep space exploration and space science research.
In November 2025, UCAS decided to establish the School of Space Exploration. The school will develop a curriculum system encompassing 14 primary-level disciplines/major categories, including Aerospace Science and Technology, and Planetary Science. Building upon its existing 97 courses, it will introduce 22 new core courses covering cutting-edge directions such as Interstellar Dynamics and Propulsion Principles, Interstellar Environment Sensing and Utilization, Planetary Dynamics and Habitability, and Interstellar Sociology and Governance. This structure is designed to achieve a deep integration of science, technology, and application.
In terms of teaching practice, the school will leverage three existing platforms at the Huairou Science City—dedicated to frontier science, key technologies, and strategic applications. Additionally, it will establish six specialized new platforms, including a UAV Intelligent Patrol and Simulation Platform, a Full-Cycle Teaching and Practice Platform for Space Science Satellites, and an Integrated Space-Ground Experimental Teaching and Innovation Platform for Interstellar Navigation. These initiatives are intended to provide students with an immersive educational environment.
