# Wang Xiji, pioneer of China’s space program, dies at 105

https://mins.news/en/item/20944

- China News Service, 2026-08-13 07:49 UTC
- Science
- Original: http://www.ecns.cn/cns-wire/2026-08-13/detail-ihfifqmx7361515.shtml

> Wang Xiji, a pioneer of China’s space program, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and recipient of the “Two Bombs, One Satellite” Meritorious Service Medal, died in Beijing on Wednesday after an illness. He led work on China’s first sounding rocket and helped design the Long March-1, laying groundwork for the country’s first satellite launch.

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- [Wang Xiji, architect of China’s early space program, dies at 105](https://mins.news/en/item/21984) — CGTN, 2026-08-13