China’s Tiangong Space Station (meaning “Heavenly Palace”) has become the centre of advancements in space technology. The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported, that Chinese astronauts on the Shenzhou-19 mission recently carried out experiments that could shape the future of space travel.
They successfully used artificial photosynthesis technology to produce oxygen and ingredients for rocket fuel, a major step toward making long-term space exploration possible.
The crew of the Tiangong Space Station conducted 12 experiments using a special device shaped like a drawer. This device is equipped with semiconductor catalysts that mimic the process of photosynthesis, which plants use to convert sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water into oxygen and glucose.
In the station’s experiments, the astronauts transformed carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and ethylene. Ethylene is a hydrocarbon that can be processed to make rocket fuel. Unlike traditional methods that require high temperatures or pressures, this system worked efficiently at room temperature and normal atmospheric pressure, using much less energy.
According to the China Manned Space Agency (CMS), the experiments also demonstrated how to manage gas and liquid flows in the microgravity environment of space. These are critical steps for future space-based manufacturing.
Producing oxygen and rocket fuel in space is essential for long-term missions. Currently, space stations like the International Space Station (ISS) use electrolysis, which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. While effective, this process consumes a large amount of energy—about one-third of the ISS’s power is used for generating oxygen.
ALSO READ: China’s Deep Blue Aerospace Launches Unforgettable $210,000 Space Flights for 12-minute
The new artificial photosynthesis system is much more energy-efficient. It provides oxygen for astronauts to breathe and creates materials for rocket fuel. This dual-purpose technology can reduce the need to transport heavy supplies from Earth, making missions to distant destinations like the Moon or Mars more practical.
“This technology mimics the natural photosynthesis process of green plants through engineered physical and chemical methods, utilizing carbon dioxide resources in confined spaces or extraterrestrial atmospheres to produce oxygen and carbon-based fuels,” explained a report from Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.
This is a big achievement for China’s ambitious space program. The country plans to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030. Producing oxygen and rocket fuel directly in space will make these missions easier and less costly.
Beyond the Moon mission, China is also planning to build an International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) in collaboration with Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos. Construction is expected to begin between 2028 and 2035. This station will serve as a base for further exploration of the Moon and may even host long-term human habitation.
ALSO READ: SpaceX Accelerates Rocket Development with Raptor 3 Engine
The success of the Tiangong experiments shows that China is ready to tackle the challenges of deep-space exploration.
The versatility of this new technology is one of its key strengths. By adjusting the catalysts, scientists can create not only oxygen and ethylene but also other important substances, such as:
- Methane: A fuel source.
- Formic Acid: A chemical that can be used to make sugars.
This adaptability makes the technology useful for many purposes beyond just oxygen and fuel production. It also allows for upgrades in space, so scientists can test new reactions and improve the system over time.
The device’s ability to function efficiently at normal temperatures and pressures means it uses less energy than other methods, making it ideal for use in space.
The ability to create essential resources like oxygen and rocket fuel in space is critical for self-sufficient missions. Transporting oxygen from Earth is expensive and logistically challenging, especially for long-duration missions. By producing these materials in space, astronauts can reduce their reliance on Earth-based supplies.
“These experiments provide critical technical support for human survival and exploration in outer space,” said a CMS scientist.
The Tiangong Space Station’s artificial photosynthesis experiments are the first of their kind conducted in orbit. They demonstrate China’s leadership in sustainable space technologies. The nation’s advancements could influence the entire space industry, encouraging other countries to develop similar systems.
Meanwhile, the Shenzhou-19 mission continues to operate onboard the Tiangong Space Station. The mission, which began in October, is expected to last six months.