Beihang University (previously known as Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics) was founded on October 25, 1952 under the name of Beijing Institute of Aeronautics, originating from the merger of the aeronautical departments of Tsinghua University, Beiyang University, Xiamen University, Sichuan University, etc. Located in the center of the Zhongguancun Science Park and within easy reach of central Beijing, Beihang is the first university in China focusing on aeronautical and astronautical education and research. About 26km away from the main campus, the suburban Shahe campus provides quiet study milieu and is also home to the National Laboratory of Aeronautics and Astronautics (NLAA).