On October 16, 2024, China commemorates the 60th anniversary of its first successful atomic bomb detonation. To mark this significant occasion, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) reopened the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” Memorial Hall after a comprehensive system upgrade. The hall now features a wealth of precious historical documents and artifacts available for public viewing.
The memorial is located at the site of the original rocket research and testing base established by Qian Xuesen, a key figure in China’s nuclear program, upon his return to China. This location, within the Beijing Huairou Yanqi Lake campus of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, stands as a historic site where significant contributions to the nation’s scientific progress were made.
Construction of the memorial began in 2013 and officially opened in 2015. It showcases the achievements of 17 prominent individuals who worked on the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” project and maintains a record of over 10,000 personnel involved in related research and testing activities. Since opening, the memorial has attracted more than 430,000 visitors, reflecting its profound social impact.
In 2024, the CAS undertook a systematic renovation of the memorial, aimed at enhancing the collection of artifacts, optimizing exhibition layouts, and strengthening its educational role. During this upgrade, the memorial curated numerous historically and culturally significant documents, including manuscripts and garments worn by key figures during pivotal events, as well as blueprints and models of essential research instruments used in the development of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite.”
Additionally, the historical remnants of the site have been carefully categorized and documented, providing each with a unique “identity card” to honor their significance.
During the renovation process, family members of various “Two Bombs, One Satellite” contributors provided over 5,000 valuable items, including clothing worn by Guo Yonghuai at the Qinghai nuclear test base, attire worn by Qian Sanqiang at high-level meetings, and Zhou Guangzhao’s certificate of merit along with personal belongings.
At the reopening ceremony, CAS President Hou Jianguo emphasized the goal of transforming the memorial into a spiritual haven for honoring scientific predecessors and a vibrant classroom for promoting the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” spirit as a dynamic teaching tool.
As a representative of the next generation of scientists involved in the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” project, CAS academician and researcher Hou Xun reiterated the importance of inheriting and promoting this spirit in scientific practice. He urged contemporary researchers to focus on national needs, prioritize self-reliance, and pursue independent innovation, continually striving to write new chapters in scientific advancement.
