On Dec 9, 2021, astronauts Zhai Zhigang, Wang Yaping and Ye Guangfu held their first open class aboard the Tianhe core module of the Chinese space station for pupils. 

In the 50-minute online class, the three astronauts explained daily life in space, how to walk in a microgravity environment and showed the children how to recycle water, oxygen and carbon dioxide in their environment. Applause broke out among the 1,420-strong audience at the CSTM when one of the three astronauts poured out water, which formed into a perfect ball. Applause broke out again when they put an effervescent tablet (泡腾片) into the water, which sparked into bubbles (气泡). But the bubbles did not burst and instead stayed complete. 

The open science lesson was broadcast live to the nation. On domestic video-sharing website Bilibili alone, the open course was watched at least 6 million times, with more views on other platforms and TV channels. 

For Shi Hao, a space specialist at China Acrospace Science and Technology Corporation, the growing desire of school pupils to pursue knowledge about space reflects the growing potential of China in exploring the universe in the future. 

"I still remember how impressed I was by the launch of Shenzhou VI in September 2005. From then on, I have carved out the dream of pursuing my career in astronautics from the bottom of my heart." Shi said. "For many people like me, this is not only a job, but a lifelong addiction and commitment. It is of vital importance to let Chinese youths touch astronautics during their childhood so as to sustain the building of talents."

He was echoed (回应) by Zhou, who places high hopes on the future of China's space industry. "We have a population of 1.4 billion, of which more than 200 million are pupils at school. By inspiring their enthusiasm, China will get an abundant supply of talents for the national space research team." "Chinese people will step further in the universe and the hope lies in our children," he added.