# National Integration

Starward Integration: Hong Kong’s First Astronaut Signals a New Era for China’s Space Ambitions

Hong Kong’s Lai Kai-ying has been named as a payload specialist for the Shenzhou-23 mission, becoming the first astronaut from the city to join China's space program. The mission highlights the increasing integration of Hong Kong into national strategic projects and underscores China's commitment to diversifying its astronaut corps with scientific specialists.