Scientists commence biological analysis of Shenzhou-17 mission samples

The Shenzhou-17 crew brought back a treasure trove of scientific data, experimental materials and equipment exposed to the harsh environment outside the China Space Station. A total of 71 samples have been delivered to the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, for in-depth analysis.

In the capital of northwest China's Gansu Province, scientists are studying the returned materials including lubricants and the equipment used to test them in space. Lubrication plays a vital role in spacecraft, ensuring smooth operation of moving parts like solar arrays and antenna systems. Using the right lubricant can significantly extend the lifespan of these critical components.

"Space exposure offers a unique testing ground for lubricants and their testing equipment," Wang Desheng, a researcher at the institute, told China Media Group (CMG). "The complexities of the space environment are impossible to fully replicate in Earth-bound labs, making these returned samples invaluable for assessing lubricant reliability."

"Environmental factors for space science experiments include ultra-high vacuum, high and low temperature alternation and space radiation environments, such as microgravity and atomic oxygen irradiation in particular, are important to study the damage patterns to lubricating materials," said Wang.

Beyond simple exposure, the returned materials underwent a battery of tests, including dynamic friction, ball-on-disk friction, and bearing analyses. These tests will provide crucial insights into how the lubricants perform under the rigors of real-world space conditions.

Cai Meirong, another researcher at the institute, told CMG that they will study the samples in the laboratory to build technical reserves for future research and development of lubricating materials with longer service life and higher reliability.

"We will analyze the structural and physicochemical properties of a sample, including its viscosity, thermal stability and other property changes, and observe whether there is any change in its structure and physicochemical properties in the space environment," said Cai.