China has reportedly made history by successfully demonstrating artificial photosynthesis technology in orbit, marking a major step towards long-term space exploration. The experiments, conducted by Chinese astronauts on the Tiangong space station, mimicked the natural process of photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and rocket fuel ingredients.
The breakthrough comes after years of research, initiated in 2015, and paves the way for producing essential resources in space. Oxygen is crucial for human survival, but transporting it onboard space missions is expensive and logistically complex. China’s artificial photosynthesis technology offers a solution by producing oxygen and other essential fuels on-site.
The device, which operates efficiently at ambient temperature and pressure, has been designed with versatility in mind. It can produce various substances, including methane, ethylene, and formic acid, all of which require energy consumption. This achievement is significant for long-term space exploration, enabling self-sufficiency and supporting missions like a crewed moon landing by 2030.
China’s ambitious plans to land astronauts on the lunar surface before 2030 rely heavily on technological advancements in various areas, including spacecraft design, propulsion systems, life support systems, and robotics. The construction of an International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), set to take place between 2028 and 2035, will require significant human presence on the Moon.
The development of artificial photosynthesis technology brings China closer to achieving its key goals in space exploration. By producing oxygen and other essential resources on-site, China can support long-term missions and pave the way for a sustainable presence in space.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/first-oxygen-rocket-fuel-made-141818081.html