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The BBC brings you all the week's science news.

Science In Action: China in Space

China's Shenzhou-10

13/06/2013

China in Space

BBC World Service - Science In Action, China in Space

What role will China play in space exploration in the future?

What role will China play in future space exploration? Should the Arab world rekindle its ancient passion for astronomy?

China has launched a manned space mission and it has successfully docked with their space station.  Are Chinese researchers attempting to improve on or do they simply want to repeat the steps already taken in space exploration by Russia and the USA?  What impact will it have on the future of collaborative space missions - will other nations join forces with the Chinese?

Arab Astronomy
Centuries before astronauts were going into space, Arab astronomers were making fundamental and lasting discoveries about stars and planets. Astrophysicist Nidhal Guessoum, argues it is time for the Arab world to rekindle that ancient tradition – noting a huge discrepancy between the oil-based wealth of countries like his own United Arab Emirates and the money spent on science. 

Hallucinogenic Drugs
We hear from controversial British scientist David Nutt, a former government drug advisor who was sacked for his views. This week he has called for greater scientific experimentation to assess whether there may be medical benefits in using what, in many countries, are currently illegal hallucinogenic drugs: magic mushrooms and LSD.

Future Science
Future scientists in Finland tell us about their research plans. The Technology Academy of Finland, a body best known for its Millennium Technology awards, is running summer camps for young science students.  We hear from some of the participants. 

(Image: A chinese rocket launching into space. Credit: AFP/Getty images)

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