On the morning of September 11, Hainan University (HNU) held its 29th Distinguished Scientist Lecture at the auditorium of the Tin Ka Ping Building. Zhao Gang, a research fellow at the National Astronomical Observatories of China and a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered a lecture titled “Searching for Exoplanets”. The event was presided over by HNU President Luo Qingming, also a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. HNU leaders Liu Qian, Tan Yong, and Yang Zhixin were present.

Zhao Gang delivering the lecture (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

Lecture venue (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

Zhao Gang’s lecture began with an introduction to the definition of planets and the history of exoplanet discovery. He provided a comparative analysis of the main techniques currently used to search for exoplanets, with a focus on the outcome with the radial velocity method and its significance. Zhao highlighted the technological advances in space-based and ground-based equipment and facilities that have, in recent years, generated a wealth of high-quality data. Looking ahead, he predicted that the exploration of exoplanets is poised to enter a new phase of rapid development.

The auditorium was filled to capacity and the audience listened attentively. Following the lecture, they had a lively discussion on China’s contributions to exoplanetary exploration. Zhao gave detailed and insightful answers to the questions from the audience.

Q&A session (Photo courtesy of CPC Publicity Department)

Over 500 representatives from all the campuses and science & education parks of HNU, as well as officials from the Hainan Association for Science and Technology, attended the event in person or online.

Source from HNU News

Translated by Han Yunsheng

Proofread by Kuang Xiaowen, Yang Jie