A series of experiments on China’s space station has produced oxygen and rocket fuel ingredients for the first time. This is an important step considered essential for human survival and future space exploration.
According to the China Manned Space (CMS) website, the 12 experiments were conducted in a pull-out device and used semiconductor catalysts to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen, which is used to make propellant for spacecraft. It produced ethylene, a usable hydrocarbon.
According to the report, the trials focused on several technologies essential to resource production and human survival, including: Precise control of gas and liquid flows under microgravity. Real-time sensitive detection of reaction products.
“This technology mimics the natural photosynthesis process of green plants through engineered physical and chemical methods, harnessing carbon dioxide resources in confined spaces or the extraterrestrial atmosphere to produce oxygen- and carbon-based fuels. ”, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Sunday.
“This research is expected to provide important technical support for human survival and exploration in outer space,” the report added.
