Chinese Astronauts Successfully Generate Oxygen and Rocket Fuel Through Artificial Photosynthesis in Space 652164 Technology News

Chinese astronauts aboard Tiangong have produced oxygen and rocket fuel through artificial photosynthesis. 2n51q

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 3 February 2025 13:00 IST

Chinese Astronauts Successfully Generate Oxygen and Rocket Fuel Through Artificial Photosynthesis in Space

Photo Credit: China Manned Space Agency 676026

Chinese astronauts on Tiangong produce oxygen and rocket fuel via artificial photosynthesis

Highlights

Chinese astronauts generate oxygen & fuel using artificial photosynthes
New method for space missions consumes less energy than electrolysis
Technology could China's lunar base by 2035 with sustainable re

ment

Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station have successfully produced oxygen and rocket fuel through artificial photosynthesis. This development could play a crucial role in China's future lunar base by enabling resource generation on-site reducing the need for supplies from Earth. Conducted by the Shenzhou-19 crew, the experiment utilised water and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and hydrocarbon fuel components, similar to the natural process of photosynthesis in plants. The approach, which requires minimal energy, may provide a sustainable method for future space missions.

Artificial Photosynthesis Method and Its Potential 6m115q

According to reports, Chinese state television CCTV stated that the artificial photosynthesis system mimics natural plant processes through engineered physical and chemical reactions. A semiconductor catalyst and a compact apparatus resembling a drawer were used to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and hydrocarbon-based fuel. Researchers believe the technology could be adapted to produce methane or formic acid by changing the catalyst used in the reaction.

Energy-Efficient Alternative to Electrolysis 592u4o

As space exploration.

Shenzhou 18 Astronauts Return to Earth Post Six-Month Space Mission

Application in China's Lunar Base Plans 2j4z5c

China plans to establish a lunar base near the Moon's south pole by 2035, and this artificial photosynthesis technology could astronaut survival by generating breathable air and fuel for return missions. Reports indicate that China, in collaboration with Russia, is also working on a mini Artemis missions.

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