China begins analysis of space lab samples to forge path to the moon

The Shenzhou-21 return capsule has completed the ninth transfer of materials from the China Space Station, bringing back the latest samples from 26 scientific experiments on Friday. 

The haul, weighing about 46.67 kilograms, consists of biological samples from experiments in space life sciences, materials science samples and combustion research data, according to the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization (CSU) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

Four mice returned from orbit underwent field tests immediately upon landing. Researchers now aim to analyze their behavior and key biomarkers to understand the effects of the space environment on living organisms.

Other biological specimens under study include zebrafish, hornwort, streptomyces, planarians and brain organoids.

Next, scientists will perform transcriptome sequencing on the recovered cell samples to investigate microgravity-induced changes, identifying key biological mechanisms and potential intervention targets. This work is expected to contribute to new strategies for preventing and treating related diseases.

Scientists are also poring over select materials science and combustion experiment samples, which arrived in Beijing early on Saturday. 

For materials science samples – such as tungsten-hafnium alloys, soft magnetic materials and relaxor ferroelectric single crystals – researchers will examine their microstructures, chemical composition, and elemental distribution, the CSU said.

These analyses will clarify how gravity influences material growth, composition segregation, solidification defects, and overall performance, while also revealing the in-service performance of materials under space conditions.

The results are anticipated to advance several applications, including protective materials for high-performance solar cells, high-gain radiation-resistant optical fibers, and innovative material processing techniques for infrastructure on the moon. These developments would provide important theoretical and technical support for satellite communications and space exploration.

Following the return of combustion experiment samples – such as burners, soot collection plates and covers – scientists will analyze the flame-synthesized semiconductor nanomaterials, soot samples and nanocarbon particle formation characteristics, according to the CSU.

Findings could lead to breakthroughs in extraterrestrial flame synthesis of nanomaterials, new energy systems, fire safety in space and functional nanocarbon production.

(With input from Xinhua)