Telescope town focuses on growth

"Now, many students of different ages come on study tours. Peak tourism happens during summer vacations, the National Day and Spring Festival holidays," he says. "Things have changed rapidly since the FAST project started, and we're very proud of it."

Guizhou Pingtang Santian Tourism Development Co Ltd says it received 1,384 students in 10 study-tour teams in the first half of 2022.

At the Pingtang International Experience Planetarium, students can learn about the telescope and astronomy. The study tours include visits to scenic spots and exploring ethnic culture. The tours last from one to five days, and provide brochures and certificates to the students. The company works with major travel agencies to promote the tours over short video platforms, and organizes science popularization speeches at schools.

"It's important to design the courses to cater to students' diverse demands, including enhancing interactions. And it's essential to train the teacher or guide regularly and work with universities to help the tours," says Lu Dehua, deputy general manager of the company.