Qian Xuesen, revered as the father of China's space program, was born in Shanghai. His pivotal contributions significantly advanced the nation's missile and aerospace technologies after 1949.

His groundbreaking work in Chinese aerodynamics and rocket science laid the foundation for the country's aerospace industry.

Located in Shanghai's Xuhui district, the Qian Xuesen Library & Museum was built to honor his legacy. The museum was established with government funding and inaugurated on Dec 11, 2011, which would have been Qian's 100th birthday.

The library's exterior is red and gray, with a dignified shape reminiscent of wind-eroded rocks in the desert.

Visitors can catch a glimpse of Qian's smiling face on the reddish-brown exterior facing Huashan Road, while the glass curtain wall provides a view of the missile entity.

Featuring a vast collection of nearly 70,000 artifacts once owned by Qian, including precious documents, manuscripts, photographs, and regalia, the museum's highlights include an exhibition gallery titled "People's Scientist Qian Xuesen", spanning over 3,000 square meters.

On May 18, 2024, the Qian Xuesen Library & Museum was added to the country's list of  "national first-grade museums", the highest honor for museums in China. It is the only museum among the country's 326 "national first-grade museums" dedicated to commemorating a scientist.

The library is set to reopen with a new look on May 1, offering visitors a fresh experience. The outdoor plaza features a "Qian Xuesen Quotes" wall and "Footprints" guiding through 24 milestones in Qian's life.

The main exhibition is divided into four sections showcasing his accomplishments, ideas, character, and road to success. There are also 123 new exhibits, including 22 national cultural relics.

Visitors are welcome to explore the museum from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9 am and 5 pm, with last entry at 4:30 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays.

For more information and updates, follow the official WeChat account of the Qian Xuesen Library & Museum by scanning the QR code.

(Updated on April 29, 2025)

Sources: qianxslib.sjtu.edu.cn, official WeChat account of Qian Xuesen Library & Museum, chinadaily.com.cn, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Xuhui district administration of culture and tourism