The Shenzhou-18 crew has been diligently carrying out a series of groundbreaking scientific experiments aboard the China Space Station since their arrival on April 26. The mission, which commenced on April 25, sent three dedicated astronauts—Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu—to orbit for a six-month duration.
Among the compelling initiatives undertaken by the crew are life science and ecological experiments involving four zebrafish and hornwort, which were transported to the space station via the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft. These experiments aim to explore the effects of the space environment on living organisms and the dynamics of contained ecosystems.
To date, the astronauts have successfully performed two water samplings and replaced a fish food container. Notably, they have observed unusual directional behaviors in the zebrafish under microgravity conditions, including rotational movements, circling, and even upside-down swimming.
The collected water samples, fish eggs, and video recordings of the zebrafish's spatial movements will be returned to Earth. Scientists plan to analyze these materials to better understand how space environments influence the growth and behavior of vertebrates. This research is expected to provide valuable insights for future studies on material circulation within closed ecosystems in space.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com