Reporter:

Here in Beijing hundreds of students attended the annual event's opening ceremony. And they also attended the lecture that followed, entitled "China's Exploration of the Moon," about different aspects of space studies and the progress of China's lunar exploration project.

"I wanted to know what such an exploration would be for China."

"I'm interested in why we are conducting the lunar exploration program and what resources we can get from it."

Ouyang Ziyuan, the nation's chief scientist in charge of the lunar exploration project, gave the lecture. He says, although the talk was aimed at a much younger audience this time around, he took it even more seriously and made very careful preparations for it.

"I prepared a special detailed version of my presentation for my younger listeners this time, talking about the solar system, and some basic information on the moon. We also interacted with each other and discussed topics, such as why we need such an exploration project to the moon and how our country would benefit from it."

Now, another 104 lectures will be held nationwide, in 30 cities and regions in the next 5 days, covering a wide range of scientific fields including astronomy, geography, biology, strategics and environmental protection.

Scientists specializing in these fields will be invited to universities and schools to give interactive lectures and seminars. Academic exchanges will also be encouraged across the country.

National Science Day and its featured events are sponsored by the China Association of Science and Technology. All of its programs are free and open to public.

Na Lan, CRI News.