On March 6, Shi Shengcai, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Director of the Academic Committee of Purple Mountain Observatory, delivered a science lecture in Xinjiang as part of the “Science and China” Xinjiang Tour.

In a lecture titled Electronic Information Technology and Astronomical Discoveries, Shi introduced students to topics including the origins of the universe, black holes, radio astronomy, and deep-space observation technologies. He also explained the role of electronic information technology in modern astronomical research.

Shi highlighted major scientific achievements such as the first image of a black hole and introduced the Qitai Radio Telescope (QTT), which is being built in Xinjiang and is expected to become the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope. He emphasized Xinjiang’s advantages as an important location for astronomical observation.

Students attending the event expressed strong interest in astronomy and science, with many saying they hoped to study physics and information technology in the future.

The lecture will also be broadcast as part of Xinjiang’s 2025–2026 spring semester “First Lesson of the Semester” program and made available through Xinjiang’s online education platform.