On April 30, 2024, at 17:46, the sixth batch of space science experiment samples from the Chinese space station returned successfully aboard the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft. This return mission included 23 scientific experiment projects, involving 32 types of life experiment samples such as human osteoblasts, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, protein crystals, organic molecules of life, seeds, as well as 18 material samples including containerless materials, high-temperature materials, and materials exposed to outer space, with a total weight of approximately 31.5 kilograms.
At 1:45 on May 1, life science experiment samples were transported to the Beijing Institute of Space Application Engineering and Technology. As the overall unit of the manned space engineering space application system, the Beijing Institute of Space Application Engineering and Technology inspected and confirmed the basic status of the returned life experiment samples on-site before delivering them to the scientists.
Subsequently, scientists will conduct biological analyses such as transcriptome sequencing and proteomics testing on the returned life cell samples. By studying the cellular biological mechanisms under microgravity conditions, they aim to provide new clues for disease prevention and intervention. They will also perform crystal diffraction analysis on life protein samples to obtain more precise three-dimensional protein structure information, researching target proteins to support drug development and vaccine research.
Material science experiment samples will be transported to Beijing with the return capsule of the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft. Scientists will conduct tests and analyses on the morphology, chemical composition, and distribution differences of ground and space samples of materials. They will study the impact of gravity on material growth, component segregation, and solidification defects to support the preparation of important new materials. Breakthroughs are expected in research areas such as lunar soil reinforcement materials and in-situ resource utilization of lunar soil.
Scientists are working on experimental samples. Image provided by the China Academy of Space Technology and Engineering Center.
Sample for experiment. Provided by the China Academy of Space Technology and Engineering.
