The Chinese Society of Astronautics (CSA) was founded in October 1979. Composed of space science and technology professionals, CSA is an NGO with the most academic representation and international influence in China's space community. CSA aims to promote innovation and development of space science and technology and facilitate its popularization and dissemination. CSA has 47 committees, more than 200 institutional members, and 100,000 individual members, and has joint offices with the branches of two international organizations, namely the Studies Center of the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) and the Select Sub-Committee on Satellite Commercial Applications (IAF).
Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST) is a member of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) and comprises 21 affiliated companies. It is one of the largest suppliers of advanced aerospace technology and air defense products in China. SAST has made significant contributions to the aerospace industry of China by taking a key role in the R&D of launch vehicles, satellites, spacecrafts, deep exploration, air defense, etc. SAST is equipped with distinguished technologies in system engineering, space propulsion, guidance navigation and control (GNC), space power source, structure material, etc. In addition, the core technologies are merged with civil applications. As a result, spin-off industries are formed in vehicle lithium batteries, natural gas transmission and distribution, mechatronic equipment, composite materials, etc.