In a series of groundbreaking achievements, the Shenzhou-19 crew aboard China’s Tiangong space station has successfully conducted pioneering experiments and extravehicular activities, marking significant advancements in the nation’s space endeavors.
In a historic first, the astronauts performed in-orbit artificial photosynthesis experiments, converting carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and producing ethylene—a key component of rocket fuel—as a by-product. This innovative process, which mimics natural photosynthesis using semiconductor catalysts, is poised to enhance human survival in space and propel China’s goal of a crewed lunar mission by 2030.
Additionally, the Shenzhou-19 crew completed their second extravehicular activity (EVA) on January 21, 2025, lasting approximately 8.5 hours. During this mission, astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze installed space debris protection devices and conducted external inspections of the space station. The operation was supported by the station’s robotic arm and ground teams, underscoring China’s growing proficiency in complex space operations.
These accomplishments not only demonstrate China’s expanding capabilities in space technology but also contribute valuable insights to the global scientific community, paving the way for future exploration and sustainable human presence beyond Earth.
