Shenzhou-18 Crew Conducts Vital Space Research on Zebrafish Behavior, Combustion, and Material Durability
Shenzhou-18 crew conducting scientific experiments in space since April 26. Zebrafish exhibit abnormal behaviors in microgravity. Water samples and fish eggs to be studied on Earth.
This six-month mission aims to explore various aspects of life science, ecology, and combustion in the unique environment of space.
As part of their research, the crew brought four zebrafish and hornwort onboard the Shenzhou-18 spaceship. These organisms are being used for a life science and ecological experiment. The astronauts have already conducted two water samplings and replaced a fish food container. Interestingly, they have observed abnormal directional behaviors in the zebrafish, such as rotational movements, circular swimming, and even swimming upside-down, due to the effects of microgravity.
The collected water samples, fish eggs, and videos capturing the spatial movement behaviors of the zebrafish will be sent back to Earth for further analysis. Scientists hope to gain insights into the influence of the space environment on the growth and behaviors of vertebrates. This research will provide valuable references for studying material circulation in contained ecosystems in space.
One of the key experimental cabinets onboard the Mengtian lab module is the combustion experimental cabinet. It enables scientists to delve into fundamental combustion science, space propulsion, fire safety for spacecraft, combustion pollution control, and other related technologies. The crew has successfully installed the conversion cable of the combustion solenoid valve, allowing for precise control of fuel flow during experiments. They have also conducted burner replacements, vacuumising, and waste gas exhaust operations on the combustion experimental cabinet.
In addition, the crew completed the mission of replacing samples in the container-free material cabinet. This cabinet has been instrumental in conducting several crucial research projects, with numerous experimental samples already brought back to Earth for further analysis and study.
Furthermore, the astronauts assembled and tested equipment for material extravehicular exposure experiments. These experiments aim to understand the effects of the space environment on various materials and their durability.
Living in a microgravity environment poses physiological challenges for astronauts, including changes in the cardiovascular system, muscle atrophy, and bone density loss. To combat these challenges, the crew diligently performs regular weightlessness protection exercises, such as treadmill training and resistance training, to maintain their physical well-being throughout the six-month mission.
Shenzhou-18 crew conducting scientific experiments in space since April 26.
Zebrafish exhibit abnormal behaviors in microgravity.
Water samples and fish eggs to be studied on Earth.
Source: CGTN