On April 30th, the sixth batch of space science experiment samples from the Chinese space station successfully returned with the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft. This return included 23 scientific experiment projects, such as human osteoblast cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, protein crystals, organic molecules of life, seeds, and 32 types of life experiment samples, as well as 18 types of material samples including containerless materials, high-temperature materials, and materials exposed to outer space, with a total weight of approximately 31.5 kilograms.
In the early hours of May 1st, life science experimental samples were initially transported to the Space Application Engineering and Technology Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing. As the overall unit of the manned spaceflight engineering space application system, the Space Application Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences conducted a basic status check and confirmation of the returned life experimental samples before handing them over to the scientists on site.
Subsequently, scientists will conduct transcriptome sequencing, proteomic analysis, and other biological analyses on the returned samples of life cells. By studying the cellular biological mechanisms in a microgravity environment, they aim to provide new clues for the prevention and intervention of related diseases. Additionally, crystal diffraction analysis will be performed on protein samples to obtain more precise three-dimensional structural information of life proteins. This research on target proteins will offer technical support for drug development and vaccine design.
Scientific experiment samples from the material science field will be transported to Beijing aboard the return capsule of the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft. Scientists will conduct tests and analyses on the organizational morphology, chemical composition, and distribution differences of ground and space samples. They aim to study the impact of gravity on material growth, component segregation, and solidification defects, providing support for the preparation of important new materials. Additionally, breakthroughs are expected in research on lunar soil reinforcement materials and in-situ resource utilization of lunar soil.
