After five years, the association has expanded its scale, winning support of the local government and residents. Ren's work has increased but he says more colleagues have joined the association that organizes science activities, including among primary school students. During Mid-Autumn Festival in September, the association places a telescope in the town square, where locals can observe the moon.

"Due to local government support our association members can visit other places for astronomy-related activities or take part in contests," he says. "It's a rare opportunity for students from such a small county to travel outside. They've become more confident, with a broadened horizon."