Beijing, April 25, 2025 (Xinhua) — China’s Shenzhou-20 spacecraft has successfully transferred a range of biological and life science experiment samples to the country’s space station, marking a significant step forward in China’s space research. The samples, which include planarians, zebrafish, and streptomyces bacteria, are now being used to conduct groundbreaking experiments on the effects of microgravity and space radiation.
According to the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization (CSU) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft have completed the in-orbit installation of these samples and have already begun conducting experiments. Initial data, including images and video footage, have been transmitted back to Earth, confirming the success of the operation.
Focus on Biological Regeneration and Space Physics
One of the key experiments involves planarians, a type of flatworm known for its remarkable regenerative abilities. Researchers are studying how microgravity and space radiation affect the regeneration process, with the planarians currently being observed in a relaxed state, showing no signs of stress or harm from the environment.
In another part of the station, zebrafish and ceratophyllum (a species of aquatic plant) are housed in a specialized aquarium to study how weightlessness impacts protein homeostasis, particularly in relation to bone loss and myocardial remodeling (changes to heart muscle). The environment in the aquarium is closely monitored, with parameters such as dissolved oxygen, water temperature, and internal module pressure remaining within optimal ranges for the health of the species.
Meanwhile, the streptomyces bacteria are under investigation to understand how microgravity influences microbial behavior and growth. The samples have undergone microscopic calibration and imaging, and are in good health.
A Multi-Disciplinary Mission
The research conducted aboard the Shenzhou-20 is part of China’s broader space station program, which aims to explore a wide array of scientific disciplines. In addition to the biological studies, astronauts are conducting research on microgravity physics and space technology. Upcoming experiments will explore the cultivation of vascularized brain organoid chips, aimed at understanding brain function in space, as well as studying the non-equilibrium dynamics of soft matter—a branch of physics that could lead to new insights into material properties in extreme environments. Additionally, experiments on high-temperature superconducting materials will further our understanding of quantum physics and material science in space conditions.
Shenzhou-20 Crew’s Mission Overview
Launched on April 24, 2025, the Shenzhou-20 mission carries a crew of three astronauts who will spend the next six months aboard China’s space station. This extended stay allows for the thorough analysis of data collected during experiments, as well as the continuation of critical research that is set to benefit not only space exploration but also life on Earth.
The successful transfer of experiment samples and the initiation of these advanced studies underscore China’s growing capabilities in space science and technology, as the country continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in space exploration.
