To foster cross-regional and interdisciplinary collaboration in aerospace, and to deepen exchanges among students globally in mechanics and aerospace-related fields, the “Exploration of Mechanics and Future Aerospace Vehicles” Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT)―Zhejiang University (ZJU) Joint International Summer School was successfully held at ZJU’s Yuquan Campus from July 7th to July 18th. As a core component of the Ministry of Education’s Mechanics “101 Plan” aerospace practice project, this summer school brought together 43 outstanding students from countries such as Russia, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. It is part of HIT’s inaugural “HIT+” Joint International Summer School program, leveraging cross-university collaboration to nurture young talents with both theoretical depth and practical skills in aerospace.
Opening Ceremony
On the morning of July 7, the opening ceremony was held in Classroom 114, Building 4, at ZJU’s Yuquan Campus. Attendees included Professor Chen Weiqiu, Dean of ZJU’s College of Aerospace Engineering; Professor Zhao Jie, Deputy Director of HIT’s Undergraduate Academic Affairs Office; Dr. Zhou Kai, a researcher under ZJU’s Hundred Talents Program; Associate Professor Wang Zongrong; and Ms. Zhou Lixia, Director of ZJU’s College of Aerospace Engineering Education Office. The ceremony was hosted by Professor Wang Gaofeng, Vice-Dean of ZJU’s College of Aerospace Engineering.
Dean Chen Weiqiu warmly welcomed the participants and emphasized that mechanics serves as the bridge between fundamental science and engineering applications, and it forms the backbone of the aerospace industry. He highlighted the strategic importance of future aerospace vehicle development in global technological competition. He encouraged students to deepen their understanding of mechanics theory while exploring cutting-edge aerospace engineering and to broaden their horizons across interdisciplinary fields such as mechanics, aerospace, materials, and artificial intelligence.
Deputy Director Zhao Jie stressed that this summer school is an important initiative under the Ministry of Education’s “Mechanics 101” Plan. Through a “theory + practice” collaborative model, it promotes cross-regional and interdisciplinary cooperation in the aerospace field. She outlined the schedule: during the first week at ZJU, there were advanced lectures in mechanics and aerospace-related fields, while in the second week at HIT, hands - on activities were featured, including a mechanics competition, model rocket design and launch, and a youth forum. This dual-campus approach aims to innovate talent cultivation models and create an international platform that integrates education, research, and industry.
Lectures
From July 7 to 11, over 10 renowned scholars in mechanics and aerospace delivered 10 high-quality lectures covering topics such as flexible device mechanics, biomechanics, dimensional analysis, turbomachinery principles, space propulsion systems, optimal guidance control, fuzzy control, and artificial neural networks. These lectures built a comprehensive knowledge network, spanning from foundational theories to engineering applications and interdisciplinary innovations.
During the classes, lively discussions flourished during Q&A sessions. Students engaged deeply with the lecturers, bringing their own research ideas for feedback. These interactions sparked creative thinking and innovation.
Themed Competition
From July 14 to 18, students traveled to HIT to participate in the 2nd International “Exploration of Mechanics” Competition, the Youth Forum, and model rocket launches. These activities enabled students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practice, gaining experience through competition and collaboration, while also showcasing their abilities and forging friendships.
On July 15, the 2nd International “Exploration of Mechanics” Competition took place at HIT’s Activity Center. This individual competition required students to design and construct structures that met specific criteria and then test their load-bearing limits. Students from different countries competed alongside each other, applying their mechanics knowledge to create innovative structural designs.
Academic Forum
On July 16, the International “Exploration of Mechanics” Youth Academic Forum was held at HIT’s Zhengxin Building. Conducted primarily in English, each student presented their innovative project. Through these exchanges, participants gained insights into the unique features of each institution’s approach to innovation and research, broadening their perspectives.
Practical Projects
On July 17, a model rocket launch activity was organized at HIT’s sports field. Students first studied the basic structure and principles of model rockets and then designed and assembled their own rockets. They constructed main load-bearing structures, recovery systems, and launch platforms, which ultimately led to outdoor launches. This hands-on experience enabled students to understand rocket technology and validate their designs.
Extracurricular Activities
During their stay at HIT, students visited the university’s history museum and aerospace exhibition hall. Multilingual guides helped international students gain a deeper understanding of HIT’s culture and achievements.
Closing Ceremony
On July 18, the closing ceremony was held at HIT’s Activity Center. Students shared reports on their innovative projects and reflections on their summer school experience. Certificates for competition winners, outstanding forum presenters, and summer school completion certificates were awarded based on participants’ performance and contributions.
Closing Remarks
This summer school, which covered two prestigious universities, exemplified a “theory + practice” collaborative education model. It also served as an important gathering of global young talents in mechanics, paving the way for future aerospace exploration and promoting international cooperation in aerospace education and research.
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审核：吴婉琼