Life of Guangzhou - Countdown to Kids' Space Mission

Ten children aspiring to be among the first astronauts from Hong Kong have moved a step closer to their space dreams with the offer of astronaut training in the United States next month.

"I want to experience the life of an astronaut," nine-year-old Lydia Mak said yesterday. "I want to taste space food and try space toilets."

Mak, along with nine other children aged between eight and 11, will join a space training camp in Huntsville, Alabama. Their trip is sponsored by MassMutual Asia.

"I thought being an astronaut was more suitable for boys and not for girls," said Toto Tse, another nine year-old. "But my school recommended me to join the program and I believe I can do it."

Although Tse spoke confidently, she could not hold back tears as she recalled how difficult it was to gain a place in the program.

More than 2,000 children sent creative work along with applications for the first round. Sixty shortlisted candidates then went through tests, and 20 went for individual interviews with patrons and judges.

The program has also become a family affair, with Alvin Cheung more than matching two sisters who won places to earlier camps.

"There was a bit of pressure," admitted Alvin. "My eldest sister won the competition in the 6th grade [primary six]. Then another sister became a little astronaut in the 5th grade [primary five]. They told me I would have to try hard to be a little astronaut in the 4th grade." He exceeded expectations and won through in the 3rd grade.

(By Grace Tsoi)

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