Artists have joined scientists in exploring relations between people, the Earth and the universe.

Starting from Saturday, Shanghai was holding a range of activities over seven days to celebrate this year’s National Science Popularization Day.

A special event showcasing the charm of art-science convergence was held at the Shanghai Science Hall on Saturday.

Kunqu Opera master Zhang Jun performed the classic “Peony Pavilion.” Violinist Xia Yunhui and pianist Li Xiaoqian from the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra performed Meditation, a popular relaxing concerto by Jules Massenet, to inspire people to feel the vastness of the universe.

Renowned scientists also shared their views on space science, environmental protection, urban construction and other major fields.

Jiao Weixin, professor of the School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, said China’s space research has entered the era of building space stations. The first, Tiangong, is set to be finished by the end of 2022.

Much advanced research, such as aerospace medicine, life science and basic physics of microgravity, can be carried out in the space station, he said.

“China is not the first to have its own space station, but it aims to build a top one. We will use the most advanced flexible batteries which can be easily folded and unfolded. Also, our space station will have robot arms to monitor the spaceship.”

Others speakers included pharmaceutical chemist Chen Kaixian, Chang’e lunar probe designer Zha Xuelei and artificial intelligence expert Fan Ling.

Also, six teams dedicated to promoting science were honored, including cardiovascular doctors from Zhongshan Hospital, who use cartoons and stories to explain medical knowledge.