One month in orbit: China's Shenzhou-23 crew blends science and everyday life

China's Shenzhou-23 crew has marked one month in orbit aboard the China Space Station, as astronauts Zhu Yangzhu, Zhang Zhiyuan and Li Jiaying (also known as Lai Ka-ying in Cantonese) have continued a range of scientific experiments while exploring more new experiences during their journey.

Over the past week, the crew conducted in-orbit scientific and operational tasks, combining rigorous research with the everyday rhythms of life in microgravity.

In the space kitchen, the astronauts placed pumpkin cubes into the space oven. They then tasted the sweet food, bringing a familiar taste of home to their orbital residence.

For aerospace medical experiments, the crew used an ultrasound diagnostic device to perform cross-check examinations on each other's neck, wrist and abdominal regions. The collected data will be used for research on pan-vascular blood flow spectroscopy, the spatiotemporal evolution mapping of blood flow and the remodeling of sensitive muscle groups.

The crew also worked closely with the intelligent robot Xiaohang, carrying out touch interaction tests to improve future onboard robotic motion-planning systems. After more than a year in orbit, Xiaohang has now cooperated with four different astronaut crews, steadily expanding its operational experience in space.

Meanwhile, neuroscience experiments continued to progress. Using electroencephalogram (EEG) acquisition equipment, the trio conducted tests including visual-motor processing and behavioral responses to changing lighting conditions. The data will be transmitted to Earth for further study.

In the field of microgravity physics, the astronauts completed the installation of multiple experimental modules and units. They also carried out maintenance tasks, including sample replacement in the containerless experiment chamber, electrode servicing of axial mechanisms and cleaning of observation window lenses.

Health management remained a constant priority throughout the week. The crew collected physiological data using a traditional Chinese medicine diagnostic device for long-term in-orbit health monitoring studies. With onboard equipment, they practiced to mitigate bone density loss and maintained regular exercises. Alongside these tasks, they organized cargo and materials inside the space station.