Space log: Busy week for Shenzhou-20 crew with spacesuit unpacking, swabs, and more

The past week has been productive for China's in-orbit Shenzhou-20 crew – commander Chen Dong and taikonauts Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie – as they continued their pioneering work, from unpacking new extravehicular spacesuits and conducting space science research to exploring cutting-edge space technologies.

New spacesuits unpacked, tested

Last week, the crew successfully completed the unpacking and functional testing of new extravehicular spacesuits (D and E), delivered aboard the Tianzhou 9 cargo spacecraft. These spacesuits underwent checks and maintenance, preparing for their upcoming space debut.

Multiple experiments and research

The crew has been conducting space research covering various fields.

Studies on how space environments impact the human blood-brain barrier has been conducted, with the aim to explore the impact and potential mechanisms of the space environment on the human blood-brain barrier and brain function at multiple levels such as cells, tissues and organs. The research will help predict potential health risks and provide intervention strategies for taikonauts' long-term missions. 

Last week, the team completed the installation of experimental units, along with sample collection and storage.

The crew has made significant progress in space medicine, including bone metabolism regulation and the relationship between gut microbiota and nutritional metabolism. Commander Chen used the space Raman spectrometer to analyze metabolites in urine samples, aiding scientists on Earth in refining and perfecting the metabolic marker system and evaluation criteria.

They also carried out studies on the impact of microorganisms on respiratory health in the space station environment by collecting throat swab samples for later analysis.

The crew continued testing microbial control technology for extraterrestrial habitat facilities, using bacterial test strips to assess the effectiveness of disinfection on selected surfaces inside the modules. In addition, they installed an experimental device for a space-to-ground controlled trial for testing space wastewater purification and energy utilization technologies using integrated microbial fuel cells.

Mixed reality device trial

The trio also tested a new mixed reality training device in orbit last week, using portable mixed reality glasses to interact smoothly with the system through simple voice commands or hand gestures.

They also completed the installation and testing of a minus 80 degrees Celsius space refrigerator in the Wentian lab module and replaced the door of the core module's sleep area as planned.

Health monitoring and maintenance

In addition to their research and technical work, the team also engaged in maintaining their health in space. They completed bone density and muscle mass measurements, strength and hearing tests, as well as weightlessness protection exercises to counteract the effects of microgravity.