On February 28, the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Indonesia’s Udayana University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step towards collaborative research and development. The two institutions engaged in comprehensive discussions on potential areas of cooperation, including academic exchange programs, climate change response strategies, and ultimately reached a consensus on a path forward.

During the signing ceremony, Prof. Wu Yirong of AIR emphasized the institute’s longstanding commitment to pioneering research in aerospace information technology and Earth system science. He introduced AIR’s particular strengths in remote sensing, satellite navigation, spatial information systems, and big data analytics. Prof. Wu Yirong expressed his hope that the MoU would foster academic exchange and talent cultivation between the two institutions, leading to joint initiatives in areas of mutual interest, such as marine remote sensing and environmental monitoring. He stated that the overarching goal is to jointly promote sustainable development in Asia.

Prof. Sudarsana, Rector of Udayana University, provided an overview of the institution. He expressed the university's eagerness to leverage this opportunity to further strengthen its partnership with AIR, fostering the advancement of remote sensing and related disciplines. Following this, Ms. Chen Mingmei, Deputy Director of International Cooperation Department, AIR, and Prof Husi Letu, Director of the State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, respectively presented an overview of AIR and the foundation of prior collaborations between the two institutions.

Prior to the signing ceremony, Prof. Husi Letu also led an academic exchange between the State Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth and the Faculty of Marine Sciences and Fisheries at Udayana University. Both sides presented their latest research findings, expressing their anticipation that the signing of the MoU would further facilitate collaboration and exchange in related fields.

The attendees of the signing ceremony also included Prof. Adiatmika, Prof. Nuars, Prof. Hendrawan, Prof. Julyantoro and Prof. Karang from Udayana University, as well as Senior Engineer Pan Jie, Prof. Shi Chong from AIR.

A group photo for the signing ceremony