China constructed Wednesday a national astronomical observation network which covers its top eight observatories throughout the country.

The National Astronomical Observatories (NAOC), under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), include the famous ones in Beijing, Nanjing, Shanghai, Shaanxi, Yunnan, Xinjiang, Jilin, Guangdong and Jiangsu.

In addition, some prestigious universities such as Beijing University, Nanjing University and the Chinese University of Science and Technology joined the powerful network.

CAS president Lu Yongxiang said the network's establishment was a landmark for China's advancement in astronomical research.

"We should spend the next few years building the NAOC into a world-leading scientific base in the field," said Lu, also a CAS academician.

The NAOC is scheduled to focus on nine research fields within this century, including the large-scale structure of the universe, and the formation and evolution of galaxies, stars and solar systems, as well as advanced astronomical observation techniques, said Ai Guoxiang, head of the NAOC.

Furthermore, the NAOC, originating from the National Astronomical Observatory Center, which was set up in 1999, vowed to encourage its researchers to participate in global astronomical competition.

(Xinhua 04/25/2001)