Chinese Astronauts Successfully Produce Oxygen and Ethylene in Space

Ethylene could be used in rocket fuel production.

The crew of the "Shenzhou-19" mission aboard the "Tiangong" orbital station has successfully conducted the first artificial photosynthesis experiment in space.

Astronauts managed to generate oxygen and ethylene — a substance that can be used in rocket fuel production. This achievement brings China closer to its long-term space exploration goals, including a potential Moon landing by 2030.

During the experiment, astronauts used semiconductor catalysts to convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen. The new technology's main advantage is its high efficiency at room temperature and normal pressure, significantly reducing energy consumption.

Unlike the electrolysis methods commonly used on the International Space Station, the Chinese innovation simulates plant photosynthesis using chemical and physical methods, making it more suitable for long-term missions. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”