For the first time, Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station have demonstrated artificial photosynthesis technology, marking a significant milestone in space exploration.
This experiment mimics the natural photosynthesis process, it was conducted by the Shenzhou-19 crew and involved 12 experiments carried out within a specially designed apparatus. Using semiconductor catalysts, the system transforms carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and ethylene, a hydrocarbon that could potentially be used as rocket fuel. This technology represents a key step toward creating self-sufficiency in space, which is critical for long-term human habitation and exploration.

China has been exploring extraterrestrial artificial photosynthesis since 2015. This technology, which operates efficiently at ambient temperature and pressure, contrasts with traditional methods that require extreme conditions. The system’s flexibility allows for the production of various substances, including methane, ethylene for propulsion, and formic acid for sugar synthesis.
This achievement is crucial for future missions, such as China’s ambitious goal to land astronauts on the Moon by 2030. It is also a vital step toward building the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a collaborative project between the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and Roscosmos.