Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station achieved a groundbreaking milestone by changing carbon dioxide into oxygen and rocket fuel using artificial photosynthesis.
Reports on January 22 show that the feat was achieved as part of the Shenzhou-19 mission in late 2024.
The groundbreaking technological breakthrough represents a considerable leap toward sustainable space exploration.
An advanced system for resource generation
The new technology is a compact, drawer-shaped device equipped with semiconductor catalysts generating essential resources directly in orbit.
By copying the natural photosynthesis process of green plants, the Shenzhou-19 crew changed carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and ethylene. Ethylene is a hydrocarbon used for developing spacecraft propellants.
Unlike conventional strategies which need high energy consumption, this new system works efficiently at room temperature and standard atmospheric pressure.
According to the state broadcaster CCTV, the energy-efficient process reduces operational costs and minimizes the logistical challenges of space missions.
The development of artificial photosynthesis for space applications dates back to 2015 when Chinese researchers started exploring “extraterrestrial artificial photosynthesis.”
This device on Tiangong is built for flexibility and upgrades, allowing scientists to test different catalysts and reactions.
Furthermore, its capability supports the production of different compounds like methane, ethylene, and formic acid. These compounds can be used for propulsion, sustenance, and other mission-critical needs.
This innovation will be important to China’s planned crewed moon landing by 2030 and its partnership with Russia on the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a project scheduled to run from 2028 to 2035.
China’s ambitions and future prospects in space
China’s ambition in space exploration spreads beyond this achievement. The Center of Space Exploration (COSE) proposed building “Extraterrestrial Planet Cave Bases” for humans in space in December 2024.
The cave bases will serve as foundational infrastructure for lunar and Martian settlements.
With these advancements, China positions itself as a leader in sustainable space technology, creating ways for long-term human presence in space.