China Manned Moon-Shot!

China: Socialist Manned Lunar-Landing Set for 2030! (8.8.2025)

The lunar lander, named Lanyue, which means embracing the moon, consists of both a landing module and a propulsion module. It is a newly developed spacecraft designed to support crewed missions to and from the moon.

It will be used to transport two cosmonauts between the lunar orbit and the lunar surface — and will carry a lunar rover and other scientific payloads. After landing, the lander will serve as a life-support centre, an energy centre and a data centre, offering assistance and serving as a base for the cosmonauts’ stay and activities on the moon’s surface.

Noting that the test was complex with a long cycle and technical challenges, the space agency said the success represents a breakthrough in research and development in terms of China’s manned lunar exploration programme.

"My father met Norman Bethune in Spain during his recovery from battle injuries. Influenced by him, my father aspired to come to China, where he met my mother and later had me," said Michael Crook, chairman of the International Committee for the Promotion of Chinese Industrial Cooperatives. His parents, David and Isabel Crook, played an important role in training a large number of foreign-language professionals for China. "The spirit of Bethune has not faded with time; instead, it has been widely inherited and carried forward in both China and Canada," said Hu Jinqiang, director of the North China Military Martyrs Cemetery. Hu noted that today Bethune is not just a name but a symbol of internationalism, humanism and selfless dedication. "We commemorate him to inspire more people to remember history and carry forward his spirit."

China: Passing of Canadian Surgeon – Norman Bethune [1890-1939] – Commemorated! (22.12.2024)

This year marks the 85th death anniversary of Bethune, who died of blood poisoning at the age of 49 on Nov. 12, 1939 in China while aiding the Chinese people in their fight against Japanese aggression. His remains were relocated to the cemetery in 1953.

The commemoration began at 10 a.m., with participants bowing before the surgeon’s tomb and presenting flower baskets.

“My father met Norman Bethune in Spain during his recovery from battle injuries. Influenced by him, my father aspired to come to China, where he met my mother and later had me,” said Michael Crook, chairman of the International Committee for the Promotion of Chinese Industrial Cooperatives.

His parents, David and Isabel Crook, played an important role in training a large number of foreign-language professionals for China.

“The spirit of Bethune has not faded with time; instead, it has been widely inherited and carried forward in both China and Canada,” said Hu Jinqiang, director of the North China Military Martyrs Cemetery.

碧霞元君 - Bi Xia Yuan Jun - Goddess of childbirth!

Daoism: Ming Dynasty Stone Inscription Discovered in North China! (27.3.2024)

The inscription discussed contains the name of the above Temple – plus the additional characters of – Miao (庙) = Temple and Ji (记) = Records – the full name of the inscription is “碧霞元君庙记”. This female Daoist Deity is associated with Mount Tai (泰山 – Tai Shan) situated in Shandong province – and is regarded as a protector of childbirth, and the instigator of each new dawn (which brings hope and renewal), as well as the good destiny of others. This Goddess governs human longevity and is said to judge the deceased. Interestingly, this Goddess listens to the prayers of children in distress – especially male children (sometimes ensuring male offspring) – but she never abandons the well-being of girls and women.

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