Aerospace medicine in China: advancements and perspectives

Classification of Aerospace Medical Research Institutions in China

Since China’s first manned spaceflight mission, aerospace medical research has played a crucial role in advancing the space industry. The research in Chinese aerospace medicine began in the 1960s¹ and has gradually developed and expanded with the progress of the national space program. Especially in recent decades, driven by the advancement and implementation of China’s manned space program, numerous dedicated research institutes, university programs, and research hospitals have provided support for the broad research and operational efforts in Chinese aerospace medicine (see Table 1).

Military institutions

Astronaut Center of China

In 1968, China established the “Beijing Institute of Space Medicine Engineering,” the predecessor of today’s “China Astronaut Research and Training Center.” Starting with aerospace medicine, it gradually expanded its scientific research and engineering practices to include aerospace psychology, aerospace ergonomics, life support, biomedical engineering, human sciences, and other fields, establishing a comprehensive set of research facilities and equipment. The China Astronaut Research and Training Center is primarily responsible for selecting and training astronauts. It has developed a complete astronaut selection and training system and built more than ten large-scale ground training and testing facilities, including spaceflight simulators, neutral buoyancy pools, and extravehicular activity (EVA) suit test chambers, and has selected and trained dozens of outstanding astronauts.

The State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, established in 2009, is affiliated with the China Astronaut Research and Training Center. It is the only laboratory in China that comprehensively conducts aerospace medical research. In response to the country’s major strategic needs in manned spaceflight, the laboratory focuses on four research directions: the mechanisms of physiological effects and countermeasures, the biological effects of space radiation, theories and technologies for astronaut health maintenance, and space experiment techniques in aerospace medicine.

In March 2011, the National Key Laboratory of Human Factors Engineering was established in Beijing, China. The laboratory’s research is based on human-machine interaction theory, focusing on interpersonal relationships and ergonomics theory and technology, fundamental research in aerospace human factors engineering applications, life support in complex human-machine systems, and individual protection technologies.

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation

China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) is responsible for the research, development, production, and launch testing of all of China’s carrier rockets, application satellites, manned spacecraft, space stations, and deep space exploration vehicles. At the same time, CASC focuses on developing satellite application equipment and products, information technology products, new energy and new material products, aerospace special technology application products, and space biological products. This drives the simultaneous development of multiple fields, including systems engineering, automatic control, computer technology, propulsion capabilities, environmental control and life support technology, communication, remote sensing, testing technology, aerospace medicine, and space science.

CASC possesses over ten key defense technology laboratories, one national engineering laboratory, and five national engineering research centers. Aiming to master key core technologies with independent intellectual property rights, CASC has formulated the Core Space Technology Program and achieved hundreds of landmark results. This has significantly advanced the initiation and development of major national space science and technology projects, such as manned spaceflight and lunar exploration engineering.

China Academy of Space Technology

The China Academy of Space Technology (CAST), affiliated with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), was established in 1968 and is also known as the Fifth Academy of CASC. After more than 50 years of development, it has become China’s primary base for the research and development of space technology and its products.

The academy focuses on three major business segments: satellite applications, intelligent equipment, and space biology. It utilizes space-carrying technology and methods to conduct space bioscience research and develops space environment application products with distinct aerospace characteristics, including biopharmaceuticals, bio-health products, and aerospace engineering breeding.

National Space Science Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences

The National Space Science Center (NSSC) is the overall research institution for China’s space science and its satellite projects, as well as the lunar and deep space exploration missions of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). It is responsible for organizing and implementing the CAS’s strategic priority program on space science, conducting innovative scientific research, and developing and testing technologies in space science and related applications. NSSC also undertakes the space environment assurance tasks for manned spaceflight projects and lunar and deep space exploration projects.

From Shenzhou VI to Shenzhou XVIII and Tiangong I and II, NSSC has successfully developed multiple space exploration payloads as an important payload development unit, playing a crucial role in conducting in-orbit space science research and applications.

Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization, Chinese Academy of Sciences

The Center for Space Application Engineering and Technology is the main entity responsible for the space application system of China’s manned space program. It oversees the organization and management, strategic planning, system design, payload development, integration testing, reliability assurance, on-orbit payload operation management, and data services for the space application system of the manned space program. The Center also supports the China Manned Space Engineering Office by providing comprehensive scientific, technical, and management support for the overall manned space program. It has achieved numerous significant space science and application results in fields such as space life sciences, space materials, microgravity fluid physics, and space environment monitoring and forecasting. Currently, the Center has established two key laboratories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS): the Key Laboratory of Space Utilization and the Key Laboratory of Space Manufacturing. Additionally, it has set up the Component Quality Assurance Excellence Joint Laboratory in collaboration with Beihang University.

China Institute for Radiation Protection

The China Institute for Radiation Protection, established in 1962, is the only research institution in China dedicated to radiation protection research and application. Its main areas of focus include radiation protection, radiological medicine and environmental medicine, nuclear emergency response and safety, nuclear environmental science, decommissioning of nuclear facilities, and radioactive waste treatment and disposal.

The Institute of Radiological Medicine and Environmental Medicine under this institution primarily engages in research on radiation biological effects, prevention of occupational hazards, occupational health monitoring, medical emergency response to nuclear accidents, radiation epidemiological surveys, and the impact of the environment on health. It comprises five research departments: Radiological Medicine, Radiological Hygiene, Radiotoxicology, Environmental Medicine, and Occupational Safety Evaluation.

Naval Medical Center of the People’s Liberation Army

The Naval Medical Center of the People’s Liberation Army, managed directly by the Naval Medical University (formerly the Second Military Medical University), serves as the special duty medical treatment base for the Navy. It is a comprehensive Grade-A military hospital that integrates medical treatment, teaching, research, prevention, and healthcare. The center is primarily responsible for the research, prevention, and treatment of naval special occupational diseases related to navigation, aviation, and diving, as well as aviation and aerospace medicine. It also undertakes tasks related to naval special medical research and teaching, as well as the prevention and control of navigation and aviation diseases.

Air Force Medical University

The Aerospace Medicine Department of the Air Force Medical University is the only academic discipline and postdoctoral training center in Chinese universities authorized to grant bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in aerospace medicine. It boasts the only innovation team in China’s aerospace medicine field, recognized by the Ministry of Education. The department has established several specialized laboratories, including the Key Laboratory of Aerospace Medicine of the Ministry of Education, the Acceleration Physiology Laboratory, the Physiological and Psychological Load Simulation Training Laboratory for Flight Personnel, the Space Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, and the High-Altitude Protection Laboratory. In 2014, it jointly founded the Army Aviation Medicine Research Institute with the former General Staff Department Army Aviation Department.

Air Force Medical University of the People’s Liberation Army of China is currently the only higher education institution in China that undertakes aviation medical education and has a Department of Aviation and Aerospace Medicine. Its main research direction is: 1. Aviation medicine, researching aviation medical support for flight personnel and research on an objective determination of the functional status of flight personnel, rapid recovery, selection criteria, and health appraisal; 2. Aerospace medicine, researching the impact, mechanism, and countermeasures of the special space environment on the cardiovascular system, skeletal muscle system, visual system, ear, nose, and throat, etc., including research on microorganisms, aviation and aerospace hygiene, and hyperbaric oxygen medicine; 3. Military psychology, researching psychological selection, training, physiological and psychological assessment, rehabilitation psychology², and other aspects.

The Air Force Medical University conducts comprehensive research in the field of aerospace medicine, covering various aspects such as astronaut selection and training, the impact of the space environment on human health, space medical equipment and technology, life support systems, and psychological health. By developing scientific selection and training methods, studying the effects of weightlessness and radiation on the human body, innovating medical equipment and technology, optimizing life support systems, and providing effective psychological health interventions, the university is dedicated to ensuring the overall physical and mental well-being of astronauts.

Space Engineering University

Space Engineering University is the only higher education institution in China dedicated to aerospace studies established after the military reform. It is co-founded by the National Defense Science and Technology Industry Bureau and the Space Systems Department of the Strategic Support Force and is under the leadership and management of the Space Systems Department of the Strategic Support Force. The primary mission of the university is to train technical talents in equipment command and aerospace command for the PLA, conduct research in military theory and key defense technologies in the fields of equipment, aerospace, and information, and serve the modernization of military equipment.

Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital

The Space Biomedical Laboratory of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital took the lead in carrying out research on space medical microbiology in China. In response to microbial protection in space environments, it systematically studied the effects and mechanisms of space environments on microorganisms, proposed the space microbial molecular effect doctrine, and opened up a new field of space medical microbiological protection applications: 1. Discover the genetic mutation patterns of pathogenic microorganisms in the space environment, and propose the theory of space microbial virulence mutation pathogenesis and the theory of human symbiosis; 2. Initiate research on space pharmaceuticals using bioengineered bacteria, propose a pharmaceutical theory related to changes in the metabolic pathways of space microorganisms, and lay the theoretical foundation for space biopharmaceuticals; 3. Reveal the mechanism of microbial corrosion in the space environment, propose the theory of space microbial corrosion and the theory of new material technology for cleaning and disinfection, and establish a microbial control system for the surface of space station materials; 4. For the first time, an independently developed pathogenic microorganism sample spacecraft carrying system was successfully applied to the carrying research of the Shenzhou series spacecraft. At the same time, in cooperation with the China Academy of Space Technology, using reusable return satellites to provide a platform for space life science research and space biopharmaceuticals³.

Air Force Medical Center of the People’s Liberation Army

The Air Force Specialized Medical Center primarily undertakes the tasks of research, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of aviation diseases and common illnesses among Air Force personnel, as well as medical assessments; it is responsible for the physical examination and selection of reserve astronauts; it provides health protection and disease treatment for the air force and joint logistics troops; it also offers high-quality medical services to the public.

In 2009, the hospital completed the initial selection of China’s second batch of reserve astronauts and the first batch of female reserve astronauts. In 2010, the Clinical Aviation Medicine Research Institute was established. In 2013, the Clinical Aerospace Sleep Medicine Center was founded, serving not only the military but also the entire society.

Strategic Support Force Medical Center of the People’s Liberation Army

The Strategic Support Force Medical Center, driven by the construction of aerospace medical diagnosis and treatment as well as the medical rehabilitation system for special duty personnel, promotes the innovative development of related disciplines. The medical center has continuously completed medical support for space launches and rehabilitation tasks for special duty personnel over the years, forming several specialized disciplines such as aerospace medical imaging diagnostics and striving to build a comprehensive rehabilitation service system.

The Strategic Support Force Medical Center is also responsible for the pre-hospital emergency care at the astronaut landing site, post-transport transfer, and rehabilitation at the General Hospital of the Logistics Department and after return. The research in the field of aerospace medicine is mainly focused on health monitoring and protection of astronauts, the impact of the space environment on the human body, space biomedical research, and the development of aerospace medical equipment and technologies.

Beijing Aerospace General Hospital

Beijing Aerospace General Hospital has conducted extensive research and practice in the fields of aerospace specialized medicine, spacecraft environmental medicine, and the prevention and treatment of occupational diseases in the aerospace industry. It has played a significant role in ensuring the health and safety of aerospace personnel while also providing medical care for employees of the aerospace system and their families.

Non-military institutions

Space Science and Technology Institute (Shenzhen)

Space Science and Technology Institute was established in 2014 as a private non-enterprise research entity formed to implement the strategic cooperation agreement between the Shenzhen Municipal Government and the China Astronaut Research and Training Center. The institute mainly focuses on applied basic research, key technological breakthroughs, and the development of aerospace civilian technologies in the fields of space ecology and environmental control, gravitational environment effects and health maintenance, and aerospace nutrition and food engineering.

Beijing Dawn Aerospace Biotechnology Co., Ltd

Beijing Dongfanghong Aerospace Biotechnology Co., Ltd. is a mixed-ownership enterprise initiated by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, a subsidiary of China Academy of Space Technology, and jointly held by China Resources Group. The company has frequently conducted microbial strain mutation research using the Shenzhou spacecraft and satellites. It has carried microorganisms such as Monascus purpureus, Dongfanghong No.1 yeast strain, Bacillus subtilis natto, Taxol-producing fungi, and Ganoderma (Reishi), continuously driving innovation in biotechnology and nutritional science.

China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences

The China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences was established in 1955. It is a comprehensive research institution under the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, integrating research, medical services, and education.

Through the unique theories and practices of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences and its affiliated research institutes and hospitals study the prevention and treatment of various health issues caused by the space environment. They conduct research on the anti-radiation properties of Chinese herbal medicines, screening out herbs and formulations with anti-radiation effects. They use herbal medicines and acupuncture to alleviate astronaut weightlessness syndrome. Additionally, through research on Chinese herbs, acupuncture, and other TCM treatments, they explore methods to relieve stress, improve sleep, and enhance psychological health in space conditions.

Harbin Institute of Technology

The Institute of Space Environment and Material Science (National Large Scientific Facility) at Harbin Institute of Technology is a research platform that addresses the forefront of global scientific and technological advances. It focuses on frontier explorations and interdisciplinary research in areas such as space physics, space life sciences, space exploration, and spacecraft application technology. The institute is responsible for the construction and operation of the National Major Scientific and Technological Infrastructure “Space Environment Ground Simulation Device.” It engages in key technological innovations and scientific research centered around this facility and related academic fields.

The institute’s main research directions and specific research content include: studying the spatiotemporal evolution laws and environmental effects of materials/devices in space environments, investigating the phenomena and mechanisms of life activities under space environmental factors, understanding the evolution of space plasma and its physical mechanisms of interaction with spacecraft, and developing space environment ground simulation and detection technologies.

Northwestern Polytechnical University

The School of Life Sciences at Northwestern Polytechnical University combines its unique focus on aerospace, aviation, and marine engineering education and research. It primarily conducts cutting-edge basic and applied research in three major disciplines: extreme environmental biology for aerospace and aquatic environments, specialized molecular medicine and health engineering, and biomedical engineering. Key research directions include space biology, biomedical materials science, biomedicine and bioengineering, molecular medicine and translational medicine, microbiology and immunology, and bio-inspired engineering and manufacturing.

Currently, the school hosts several related research platforms, including the National Defense Key Discipline Laboratory for Space Biology Experiment Simulation Technology and the Ministry of Education Engineering Research Center for Diagnostic and Protective Technologies and Equipment in Special Aerospace Environments.

Beihang University

Beihang University has established a solid research foundation in the field of aerospace medicine, particularly excelling in the study of the effects of space weightlessness on human physiological systems and space bio-regenerative life support.

The university conducts theoretical and technological research on space bio-regenerative life support systems, aiming to create a closed artificial ecosystem based on biotechnology. This system would cyclically regenerate the oxygen, water, and food needed by astronauts, ensuring long-term independent human survival in space.

Research also focuses on the mechanisms of how microgravity and hypergravity affect various biological cells, tissues, and organs. Specifically, the impact of space weightlessness on human physiological systems is studied in depth, with particular attention to the skeletal muscle system, immune system, and blood system. Additionally, the university investigates the effects of exercise and medications in counteracting the physiological changes induced by weightlessness, seeking effective protective measures.

Beijing Institute of Technology

The Institute of Engineering Medicine at Beijing Institute of Technology has initiated research in space biosafety and control technologies, as well as aerospace medical engineering. This includes the development of microfluidic chips and devices for microbial cell transport. Leveraging its advantages in space station platform technology and biomedical technology, the institute aims to establish a space biomedical engineering research and achievement transformation platform of international and domestic first-class standards.

The institute also undertakes research tasks in the field of space life science experiments. These tasks include studying the traditional Chinese medicine protective mechanisms against neurological and intestinal damage under space weightlessness conditions, investigating the pharmacokinetic changes of traditional Chinese medicine under space weightlessness conditions, monitoring microorganisms in the space station environment, ensuring biosafety control, and researching the immunological mechanisms of space biological effects.

Ningbo University

The Ningbo University Institute of New Drug Technology was established in 2017, with research fields and directions including phosphorus chemistry and new drug technology, as well as space biology and aerospace biology.

In December 2019, the “Astrochemistry and Space Life—Qian Xuesen Collaborative Research Center for Space Science” was co-founded by Ningbo University and the China Academy of Space Technology of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. The research center operates under the auspices of the Ningbo University Institute of New Drug Technology. The center aims to utilize aerospace technology to unlock the mysteries of space life sciences and conduct aerospace biomedical research in the unique extreme environments of space, such as microgravity, radiation, and magnetic fields. Its goals are to address key challenges in human space exploration and health development, as well as to promote the space medicine industry and related aerospace technology industries.

Affiliated Hospital of Capital Medical University

In 2020, Beijing Tiantan Hospital of Capital Medical University and the China Astronaut Research and Training Center jointly established the Neurocardiology Space Medicine Research Joint Laboratory, which undertakes brain science research related to aerospace medicine. Tongren Hospital of Capital Medical University is crucial in astronaut selection, health monitoring, and emergency medical rescue. It has also developed a series of health monitoring technologies specifically for astronauts, particularly in ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology, to ensure their health during missions in space.

China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences

The affiliated hospital of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences combines traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theories with modern medical technologies in its research in the field of aerospace medicine. It explores and develops TCM solutions for maintaining astronaut health and preventing diseases. This includes pharmacokinetic studies of Chinese medicine to understand the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of TCM in the space environment, ensuring its safety and efficacy in the health protection of astronauts.

Beijing Aerospace General Hospital

Beijing Aerospace General Hospital has conducted extensive research and practice in aerospace specialized medicine, spacecraft environmental medicine, and the prevention and treatment of occupational diseases in the aerospace industry. It has played a significant role in ensuring the health and safety of aerospace personnel while also providing medical care for employees of the aerospace system and their families.

Aerospace Center Hospital

The Aerospace Center Hospital is responsible for providing specialized medical health support for the aerospace and national defense military systems. Additionally, it undertakes aerospace medicine research, conducts fundamental research in aerospace medicine, and develops aerospace testing equipment. The hospital has established a distinctive innovation profile in aerospace medicine and the integration of medical and engineering technologies.

Relevant findings of research institutions

In the past 50 years of space medicine research in China, with the advancement and implementation of manned space flight projects as the driving force, domestic research institutions and research institutes have carried out a large number of space life science and space medicine engineering research around the impact of space environment on human body and its protection. Through long-term research and practice, research institutions and research institutes such as Astronaut Center of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Academy of Military Sciences, China Academy of Space Technology, Air Force Medical University, Tsinghua University, Harbin Institute of Technology, Beihang University, Beijing Institute of Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, etc. have accumulated a large amount of research data and results on the impact of space environment on human physiology and biochemistry, on somatic cells and molecules, and on gene changes. At the same time, medical institutions such as Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, 306th Hospital of PLA, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University and Aerospace Center Hospital have also carried out a number of basic space environmental medicine research under the overall promotion of manned space flight projects.

Astronaut Center of China

Astronaut Center of China has established the State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, which is the first laboratory in China to comprehensively carry out aerospace medical research. The laboratory has established four research directions: physiological effect mechanisms and countermeasures, space radiation biological effects, astronaut health maintenance theory and technology, and space medical experiment technology⁴. The development of manned spaceflight has also spawned a new discipline in related fields – Aerospace Medical Engineering, which is a comprehensive applied discipline that combines medical and engineering, and integrates multiple disciplines^5,6. Astronaut Center Of China focuses on important directions such as the physiological effects of weightlessness and their protective mechanisms, the biological effects of radiation and their protective mechanisms, advanced on-orbit health monitoring technology, the application of traditional medicine in spaceflight, space basic biology, space radiation biology, and space biotechnology and applications⁷. At the same time, remote medical diagnosis and treatment between space and Earth is also an integral part of aerospace medical support tasks.

On November 10, 2007, the ‘Earth-Star-I’ 60-day head-down bed rest experiment was conducted under the direction of the Astronaut Center of China, in collaboration with the French Space Agency, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the Air Force Medical University. The ‘Earth-Star-I’ experiment was the first large-scale comprehensive human experiment in China’s aerospace medicine field. The project involved 21 male volunteers, divided into a bed rest control group, a resistance exercise group, and a pharmaceutical protection group. Over 60 days at a −6° head-down tilt to simulate weightlessness, the study investigated three major aspects: the effects of weightlessness on cardiovascular physiology, the counteractive effects of resistance vibration on bone loss and muscle atrophy, and the protective effects of traditional Chinese medicine on the human body in a weightless state^8,9,10,11.

In July-August 2010, the Astronaut Center of China organized the country’s first 15-day head-down bed rest experiment involving female participants. The volunteers were 22 female university students. This experiment systematically studied the physiological effects of weightlessness and the protective characteristics in young women^{12,13,14,15,16,17,18}. It discovered gender differences and mechanisms related to decreased orthostatic tolerance after simulated weightlessness. The experiment also developed a lower body negative pressure combined with a bicycle ergometer exercise prescription and proposed key points for in-orbit medical supervision and support for female astronauts. These findings were applied in rendezvous and docking missions, providing strong support for the successful first flight of Chinese female astronauts.

In 2011, the China Astronaut Research and Training Center established the country’s first controlled ecological life support system integration experiment platform¹⁹. On November 1, 2012, the research for the 30-day controlled environmental life support system integration experiment involving two participants officially began. This experiment aimed to study the dynamic balance regulation mechanisms of oxygen, carbon dioxide, water, and other substances between humans and plants in a closed system and to master the methods of locally supplying fresh food for the crew. Additionally, the experiment included a series of scientific tests in a closed ecological system, such as plant physiology, crew biological rhythms and thermal responses, traditional Chinese medicine diagnostics, psychology, ergonomics, food nutrition, environmental medicine monitoring and evaluation, medical monitoring and health protection, and space station hygiene and cleanliness verification. In collaboration with Germany, research was also conducted on crew members’ core body temperature biological rhythms in a closed environment. This experiment achieved several breakthroughs for the first time, including the dynamic balance regulation technology for the “human-plant” exchange of atmospheric oxygen and carbon dioxide, comprehensive microbial wastewater treatment and recycling technologies, and more. The closure degrees for atmosphere, water, and food reached 100%, 85%, and 15%, respectively^20,21.

In 2016, astronauts used the space-to-earth remote medical consultation system for the first time to achieve four-way linkage between astronauts, astronaut support rooms, remote medical consultation centers, and ground support hospitals, transmitting routine medical examination data and achieving space-to-earth remote consultations to provide health protection for astronauts’ future long-term on-orbit residence²².

On June 17, 2021, the successful launch of Shenzhou-XII marked the first manned flight mission during the Chinese space station phase²³. According to the mission plan, during the Shenzhou 12 flight, the astronaut crew will complete four main tasks while in orbit: 1. Conduct daily management of the core module assembly. 2. Perform extravehicular activities (EVAs) and external operations. 3. Carry out space science experiments and technical tests. 4. Manage their own health.

In the field of aerospace medicine and related experiments, 16 experimental studies and technical verifications have been conducted, mainly in the following areas: 1) Conducted validation tests of the space treadmill restraint system, providing a basis for the development of the space station treadmill and the design of in-orbit exercise programs. 2) Developed an in-orbit psychological relaxation system for astronauts based on virtual reality technology with a high degree of immersion, validating new technologies for psychological support during long-duration flights. 3) Conducted trials of the remote telemedicine consultation model, verifying the feasibility of remote medical consultations. 4) For the first time, used ultrasound medical technology and laser Doppler technology to conduct in-orbit cardiovascular function research, obtaining ultrasound medical imaging data of Chinese astronauts in a weightless environment for the first time and pioneering the use of laser Doppler technology for in-orbit non-invasive vascular endothelial function research on an international scale²⁴.

On October 16, 2021, the Shenzhou-XIII was successfully launched. The primary tasks of this mission include: 1. conducting key technology tests for the assembly and construction of the space station, such as module transfer assisted by the robotic arm and hand-controlled remote operations. 2. Performing 2–3 extravehicular activities to install combination adapters for the large and small robotic arms and suspension devices, preparing for subsequent space station construction tasks. 3. Further verifying technologies for health, living, and work support for astronauts during a six-month stay in orbit. 4. Conducting scientific and technical experiments and applications in fields such as aerospace medicine and microgravity physics, and engaging in diverse educational outreach activities 5. comprehensively assessing the functionality and performance of all engineering systems in executing space station missions, as well as their compatibility with each other²⁵.

Building on the Shenzhou-XII mission, the Shenzhou-XIII mission completed over twenty in-orbit scientific experiments. These experiments focused on new technologies for astronaut health monitoring and the discovery of new scientific knowledge. During their time in orbit, the Shenzhou XIII crew established the first long-term cell culture system and cell model under space conditions. They also used gene reprogramming to convert kidney epithelial cells from human urine into stem cells, which then differentiated into cardiomyocytes²⁶. This achievement is a global first. Additionally, they completed the world’s first suspension culture experiment of skin stem cells under long-term weightlessness conditions²⁷.

The Shenzhou-XIV manned spacecraft successfully launched on June 5, 2022. The Shenzhou-XIV manned flight mission is the second flight mission of the construction phase of the Chinese space station and the first manned flight mission of this phase. The main objectives of the mission are as follows: 1. To coordinate with the rendezvous and docking of the Wentian Lab Module, the Mengtian Lab Module, and the Core Module to complete the in-orbit assembly construction of the Chinese space station. 2. To install and debug equipment inside and outside the space station cabin and related facilities for space applications. 3. To conduct space science experiments and technical tests. 4. To perform routine maintenance and related work²⁸.

During the Shenzhou-XIV mission, 24 space medical experiments will be conducted, divided into three categories: the first category is to understand the physiological effects of weightlessness on the human body; the second category is to explore the effects of spaceflight on human capabilities and study the characteristics of changes in human capabilities; the third category is to better understand and understand the mechanisms of body changes caused by the space environment. At the same time, the spacecraft is equipped with an in-orbit body fluid collection system, including blood, urine, and saliva; an optical measurement-based non-invasive muscle measurement system; a health monitoring system based on urine metabolite analysis; a blind box gift box for taste regulation; and a wearable acupoint stimulation suit to mitigate the effects of weightlessness²⁹.

On November 30, 2022, the crew of Shenzhou-XV successfully entered the space station. The main tasks of the Shenzhou-XV crew during their approximately 6-month stay in the space station include: 1. Implementing a schedule synchronized with Earth’s day and night cycles, regularly monitoring, maintaining, and evaluating their own health status. 2. Managing supplies and waste, and participating in platform equipment inspection tests. 3. Conducting experiments on robotic arm operations and emergency evacuation drills in the assembly, among other in-orbit exercises. 4. Completing the assembly of the space station and conducting a series of space science research projects³⁰.

According to the flight mission plan, a total of 29 scientific experiments and application tests in 4 fields including space life science and biotechnology, space physics, space materials science, and space application new technology experiments will be carried out in the space station. In the field of space life science and biotechnology, Chinese astronauts will carry out 4 scientific experiments including the study of the impact of space microgravity environment on stem cell lineage differentiation, the study of 3D growth and tissue construction of stem cells, the molecular evolution study of the co-origin of protein and nucleic acid and the origin of codons, and the biomechanical study of the impact of microgravity environment on cell-cell interactions and cell growth. Using the external radiation exposure device, 3 scientific experiments will be carried out, including the research on key technologies for space radiation damage assessment and application, the research on the tolerance and mechanism of microorganisms to space exposure environment, and the research on the photochemical behavior of life molecules under space exposure environment³¹.

On May 30, 2023, the Shenzhou-XVI spacecraft successfully docked with the Tianhe core module, marking the start of the application and development phase of the Chinese space station³². Shenzhou-XVI manned spaceflight marked the first manned mission of China’s manned spaceflight program entering the stage of space station application and development. The main tasks of the crew in orbit include six categories: 1. piloting manned spacecraft rendezvous and docking, assisting in the docking and departure of cargo spacecraft, and astronomical telescopes; 2. caring for the space station assembly platform; 3. managing the crew’s own health, including monitoring health status and on-orbit exercise training, ensuring the astronauts’ health and work life in orbit; 4. conducting in-orbit experiments, utilizing the space station’s interior and exterior facilities for large-scale scientific research and applications; 5. conducting science popularization and public welfare activities, including lectures in the Tiangong classroom; 6. dealing with abnormal situations, including emergency handling of in-orbit failures³³.

During this phase, various space science experiments were conducted, such as human factors engineering, aerospace medicine, life ecology, biotechnology, materials science, fluid physics, and aerospace technology. The life science projects were mainly divided into five categories, including 1) Conducting “Biomechanical Research on the Effects of Microgravity on Cell Interaction and Cell Growth,” aimed to study the biomechanical characteristics of liver tissue cells in microgravity and the mechanical-biological coupling process, as well as the laws governing the effects of gravity changes on cellular life activities. 2) Conducting “Molecular Evolution Research on the Co-Origin of Proteins and Nucleic Acids and the Origin of Codons,” this is the first international attempt to explore the origin of codons by combining amino acids, nucleotides, and phosphorus. 3) Conducting “Molecular Network Research on the Regulation of Plant Cell Structure and Function by the Microgravity Environment,” by studying the behavior of the LAZY gene associated with gravity response in Arabidopsis thaliana in a microgravity environment, aims to reveal the signal transduction mechanism by which plants perceive the microgravity environment and its regulatory network. 4) Conducting “Study on DNA Damage Repair during Space Radiation Exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans Development and its Impact on Cell Apoptosis,” utilizing a fully automated microfluidic system to analyze the effects of long-term radiation exposure on DNA damage repair and germline cell apoptosis. 5) Carry out “Research on Key Technologies for Space Radiation Damage Assessment Science and Application”, explore biomarkers of space radiation damage, and build a space radiation damage assessment model³⁴.

On October 26, 2023, the Shenzhou-XVII manned spacecraft successfully docked with the Tianhe core module³⁵. During their mission, the Shenzhou-XVII crew conducted 84 on-orbit experiments in space applications, generating over 200 samples across more than 60 different types. These experiments covered various fields, including space life sciences and biotechnology, aerospace medicine, and space materials science³⁶.

This flight will carry the experimental unit for the “Space Protein Molecular Assembly and Application Research” project. The main research content includes: 1) Conducting “High-throughput Protein Crystallization and Molecular Structure-Function Research,” obtaining large-sized high-quality protein crystals through the design of various growth conditions. Researching their biological functions to reveal the laws of life activities. 2) Conducting “Nanocrystal Drug Preparation and Pharmacological Research,” studying the effects of space microgravity and radiation environments on drug structure, efficacy, and stability. Also, developing new crystalline forms of drugs and oral drug formulations. 3) Conducting “Nano-crystal Skeletal Space Preparation Research,” using microscopic structural analysis and molecular dynamics simulations to study the molecular mechanisms of self-assembly processes in biomimetic skeletal composite materials. 4) Conducting “Protein Crystal Space Radiation Damage Research,” exploring vulnerable sites in biomolecules through the fixation and amplification effects of crystals on space radiation damage. Simultaneously, establishing a database on radiation damage patterns in biomolecules to guide drug development in space and on the ground. 5) Conducting “Dynamic Studies of Protein Crystallization through Space Microscopic Observation,” studying the kinetics and morphology of protein crystallization by observing and controlling the process of protein crystallization in space. Establishing theoretical models for the nucleation and growth dynamics of protein crystals, exploring general principles, methods, and patterns of crystal growth in space environments³⁷. At the same time, this manned flight mission also carried a physiological signal testing box and an electrocardiogram recording device, mainly used for medical monitoring and healthcare equipment systems, as part of the “space hospital,” providing support for astronauts’ life in space.

On April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-XVIII mission was successfully launched. The main objectives of this mission are as follows: 1. Conduct space science and application experiments. 2. Carry out extravehicular activities (EVAs) and cargo transfer operations. 3. Install and recover space station debris protection devices, external payloads, and external equipment. 4. Conduct science popularization and public welfare activities. 5. Perform space payload experiments³⁸.

The crew will utilize scientific experiment cabinets inside the module and external payloads to conduct over 90 experiments in areas such as fundamental physics in microgravity, space materials science, space life science, aerospace medicine, and space technology³⁹.

In terms of space application systems, this mission will carry out four scientific experiments in the fields of space life sciences and materials science: “Key Technology Research of Advanced Aquatic Life Support System in Space,” “Molecular Network Research on the Regulation of Plant Stem Cell Function and Structure in Microgravity,” “Molecular Evolution Research on the Co-Origin of Proteins and Nucleic Acids and the Origin of Codons,” and “Design, Interface Mechanism, and Extravehicular Verification of Solid-Liquid Composite Lubricating Materials for Space Use.” The total weight of the samples and devices for this mission is ~35 kg. Experimental samples and devices include Arabidopsis seeds, zebrafish, hornwort, and lubricating materials, which will begin their space experiments⁴⁰.

Li Yinghui, the Deputy Chief Designer of the Astronaut System, introduced the status of China’s manned space project in terms of space applications and development as of August 2023. Currently, China’s space medicine experiments primarily focus on five research areas: the effects and protective technologies of long-term weightlessness on astronauts’ health, the effects and protective technologies of space radiation on astronauts’ health, astronaut behavior, and capability research, advanced on-orbit monitoring and medical treatment technologies, and the application of traditional medicine in space. A total of 49 innovative space medicine experiments are being conducted in these areas⁴¹.

1) Advanced on-orbit health detection technologies established

Including non-invasive muscle structure and function measurement technology, metabolomics detection technology based on Raman spectroscopy^42,43, non-invasive eye-cranial pressure gradient detection technology, eye-hand coordination fine motor control assessment technology, and rapid detection technology for mental fatigue⁴⁴.

2) Development of health maintenance and capability enhancement technologies for astronauts

Including space bone loss protection technology based on mechanical stimulation—bone loss countermeasure device⁴⁵, wearable mental fatigue intervention technology, rapid alertness enhancement technology, smart lighting technology in sleeping areas to improve sleep quality, wearable acupoint stimulation intervention technology for weightlessness physiological effects – wearable acupoint stimulator⁴⁶, biological rhythm guidance technology based on short-wave light – magnetic attraction glasses band and glasses⁴⁴, among others.

3) Original mechanism exploration and applied basic research conducted

Discovery of the characteristics of vision function and eye and intracranial pressure structural and functional changes during spaceflight, and the mechanism of related neuro-ophthalmic syndrome induction^47,48.

Discovery of the impact rules and mechanisms of on-orbit flight on eye-hand coordinated movements, revealing that “feedforward control” is more susceptible to the microgravity environment, with high-load control task performance more likely to decline during on-orbit flight.

Discovery of the characteristics of human movement biomechanics and gait adaptability changes in long-term weightlessness environments, with significant changes observed in tendon mechanics in space environments⁴⁹.

Establishment of experimental techniques for the differentiation and derivation of cardiomyocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells. The first international study on the microgravity response of human urine renal epithelial cells reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells and then redifferentiated into cardiomyocytes. The first international visualization study on the effect of weightlessness on intracellular calcium signaling, and the first observation of calcium signal flickering in rhythmically beating cardiomyocytes under weightlessness²⁶.

Completion of China’s first space organ-on-chip study, and the first international artificial blood vessel tissue chip study. Established multiple medical research models, such as artificial blood vessel chips, cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells, and human skeletal muscle satellite cells, applied in space experiments for the first time internationally^50,51.

4) Collected tens of thousands of experimental data under long-term spaceflight conditions, covering more than 10 categories such as cardiovascular, skeletal, muscular, brain function, visual function, nutritional metabolism, biological rhythms, epigenetics, traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis, and behavioral capability.

Analyzed the effects of gravity factors on the homeostatic regulation and structural-functional remodeling of the cardiovascular system, and developed integrated physiological mechanisms for weightlessness-induced cardiovascular dysfunction⁵².

Analyzed the patterns and interactions of bone metabolism and glucose metabolism changes in the body during long-term spaceflight, gaining further insights into the inter-system regulatory mechanisms in a weightless environment⁵³.

Clarified diagnostic evaluation indicators of health status in traditional Chinese medicine under space conditions, and explained the characteristics and patterns of changes in TCM syndrome types and overall functional status of astronauts at different stages of flight^54,55.

The Space Biomedical Laboratory of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital took the lead in carrying out research on space medical microbiology in China. In response to microbial protection in space environments, it systematically studied the effects and mechanisms of space environments on microorganisms, proposed the space microbial molecular effect doctrine, and opened up a new field of space medical microbiological protection applications: 1. Discover the genetic mutation patterns of pathogenic microorganisms in the space environment, and propose the theory of space microbial virulence mutation pathogenesis and the theory of human symbiosis; 2. Initiate research on space pharmaceuticals using bioengineered bacteria, propose a pharmaceutical theory related to changes in the metabolic pathways of space microorganisms, and lay the theoretical foundation for space biopharmaceuticals; 3. Reveal the mechanism of microbial corrosion in the space environment, propose the theory of space microbial corrosion and the theory of new material technology for cleaning and disinfection, and establish a microbial control system for the surface of space station materials; 4. For the first time, an independently developed pathogenic microorganism sample spacecraft carrying system was successfully applied to the carrying research of the Shenzhou series spacecraft. At the same time, in cooperation with the China Academy of Space Technology, using reusable return satellites to provide a platform for space life science research and space biopharmaceuticals³.

Chinese Academy of Sciences

Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics

On September 9, 2006, the Shijian-8 breeding satellite was successfully launched. This mission included a microgravity experimental platform for the in-orbit module of the Shijian-8 breeding satellite, developed by the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics. It contained two sets of space life science experimental devices. The cell incubator was used to study the effects of the space environment on the embryonic development of stem cells, while the plant incubator was used to research the growth and development of higher plants in a space-closed ecological system⁵⁶.

On September 15, 2016, Tiangong-2 was successfully launched. Its space laboratory is equipped with a mini space “greenhouse”—a higher plant culture box, developed by the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, whose main task is to cultivate plants. China will carry out the first 6-month plant “from seed to seed” full life cycle culture experiment this time. This experiment can realize the real-time monitoring of the whole process of plant growth and development; realize the effective circulation of water in the closed environment of space, which improves the utilization rate of water; and use the transgenic technology to mark the flowering gene of Arabidopsis thaliana with green fluorescent protein gene⁵⁷.

On April 20, 2017, the Tianzhou-1 cargo spacecraft was launched and completed its first docking with Tiangong-2 on April 22, 2017^58,59.

During this mission, the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics developed a space cell bioreactor to conduct space science experiments with various cell samples, including human embryonic stem cells, liver stem cell lines, induced pluripotent stem cells, mouse embryonic stem cells, and embryoid bodies. The development team overcame key technical challenges, such as in-situ microscopic fluorescence imaging technology, complex microfluidic multi-channel liquid transport management, and multi-mode automatic search, capture, and recognition microscopic (fluorescence) imaging technology. They established a 24-channel independent intermittent perfusion culture system capable of conducting space adherent and suspension culture experiments with 15 different types of cells. Under non-return of cell samples, the instrument can obtain real-time in-situ microscopic (fluorescence) sequence images of cells in orbit^3,60.

On July 24, 2022, the Wentian Lab Module was launched, which is equipped with the biotechnology science experiment system and the life ecology science experiment system developed by the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics⁶¹.

The biotechnological scientific experiment systems include modules for cell and tissue experiments, protein crystal analysis, cell and tissue detection and regulation, and specialized experiments. These systems will conduct experiments on cell and tissue cultivation, space protein crystallization and analysis, protein and nucleic acid co-evolution, and space biomechanics. The research outcomes will play a proactive role in tissue engineering, biomedicine, environmental biotechnology, and other fields. Specifically, the cell and tissue experiment module can simultaneously support 72 cultivation units for conducting space-level cell and tissue cultivation experiments. It is equipped with a self-developed “miniature” composite microscopy imaging system that integrates visible light imaging, fluorescence imaging, and laser confocal microscopy functionalities. This system enables real-time on-orbit fine observation of experimental samples through automatic patrol inspection and focusing.

The life ecological science experiment systems include general biological cultivation modules, small-scale general biological cultivation modules, small-scale controlled life ecological experiment modules, small centrifuge experiment modules, microbial detection modules, and cabin radiation environment measurement modules. These systems allow independent control and adjustment of temperature, humidity, light exposure, and liquid and gas composition for each module⁶².

On November 12, 2022, the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics developed the Cell Experiment Unit (CEU) Upstream Life Support System and Life Experiment Consumables Package, which were launched aboard the Tianzhou-5 cargo spacecraft. The CEU Upstream Life Support System provides the necessary temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, and nutritional environment for cell experiment samples during their journey to the space station, ensuring the cells arrive in an optimal physiological state. The Life Experiment Consumables Package includes carbon dioxide cylinders, gas purification units, gas samplers, etc., which are essential supplies for the normal conduct of experiments in the Space Station Life Support Rack and Biotechnology Experiment Rack, supporting life and ecological experiments onboard⁶³.

On November 29, 2022, the plant experiment units and nematode chip experiment boxes developed by the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics were launched aboard the Shenzhou-XV spacecraft. The plant experiment units package includes two plant experiment units and sealed sampling bags, which assist scientists in studying plant physiological mechanisms in microgravity environments. The nematode chip experiment box is designed to carry nematode samples, enabling automated cultivation, capture, and release of nematodes in orbit. This supports research experiments in space radiation dosimetry and biological damage assessment technologies⁶⁴.

In January 2023, the Biotechnology and Life Ecological Science Experiment System had been operating steadily in orbit for six months. It completed five space life science experiments, including animal cells, plants, and nematodes. The system achieved the first application of a domestically developed laser confocal microscope in space. The initial batch of cell samples was transported to orbit by the Tianzhou-5 cargo spacecraft via the Cell Bio-Experiment Support System. During the orbital experiment, the first images using space laser confocal microscopy were obtained, and the cell samples returned to Earth aboard the Shenzhou-XV spacecraft. Internationally, the team accomplished the first full life cycle space cultivation experiment of rice “from seed to seed.” Scientific samples returned to Earth with the Shenzhou-XIV spacecraft and were delivered to scientists for further research⁶⁵.

On May 10, 2023, the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics developed and sent into space aboard the Tianzhou-6 cargo spacecraft: the Cell Experiment Unit Uplink Life Support Device, 8 sets of cell tissue experiment units for 2 scientific projects, a biomechanics specialized experiment module, a molecular evolution research unit for protein and nucleic acid co-origin and codon origin, a microbiological detection module microfluidic chip component, and a radiation biology exposure experiment device sample observation subsystem. These will provide essential equipment, experimental samples, and consumables for multiple scientific experiments in China’s space station Wentian and Mengtian Lab Module⁶⁶.

On May 30, 2023, the Shenzhou-XVI manned spacecraft successfully launched. Onboard, the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics developed the Molecular Evolution Research Unit for Protein and Nucleic Acid Co-Origin and Codon Origin, along with the nucleic acid experiment unit, small centrifuge unit (including four plant experiment units), and nematode chip experiment box. These payloads will accompany the spacecraft to support a variety of scientific experiments for China’s space station, including the Tianhe and Mengtian experimental modules, providing essential equipment, experimental samples, and consumables⁶⁷.

On January 17, 2024, the Tianzhou-7 cargo spacecraft was successfully launched. The cell experiment unit’s life support device, the nucleic acid amplification detection unit, and the visible light camera, all developed by the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, will provide essential support for conducting various scientific experiments on the space station⁶⁸.

On April 25, 2024, the mini controlled life ecology experimental module, the aquatic support device, the plant experiment unit, and the nucleic acid experiment unit developed by Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics were launched into space aboard the Shenzhou-XVIII manned spacecraft. These units will support the space station in conducting key technology research on advanced aquatic life support systems in space, investigating the molecular network regulating plant stem cell functions and structures in a microgravity environment, and studying the molecular evolution of the co-origin of proteins and nucleic acids as well as the origin of codons. They will provide essential devices, experimental samples, and consumables for these experiments⁶⁹.

National Space Science Center

On April 6, 2016, China successfully launched its first microgravity scientific experiment satellite, the SJ-10 Recoverable Scientific Experiment Satellite (SJ-10), which successfully returned on April 18, 2016⁷⁰.

The SJ-10 conducted numerous space science experiments. In the field of space medicine, these included research on crystal growth and solidification processes in a microgravity environment, inhibition of solute convection using the microgravity environment, studies on the effects and genetic consequences of space radiation on the genome, research on the impact of the space environment on silkworm development and mutation mechanisms, microgravity plant biology effects and microgravity signal transduction research, the laws of substance transport in cell-cell interactions under microgravity, photoperiod-induced flowering of higher plants under microgravity^71,72, three-dimensional culture and tissue construction of hematopoietic and neural stem cells under microgravity⁷³, early embryo development in mammals under microgravity⁷⁴, and the directed differentiation effects of osteocytes in space⁷⁵.

In June 2023, a space radiation biology device developed by the National Space Science Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences was successfully installed on the external exposure platform. The device is designed with 12 sample box units capable of carrying biological materials such as plant seeds, microorganisms, and small animals for in-orbit experiments. This radiation device facilitates research on radiation damage, genetic variation, and the preparation of radioprotective drugs, and provides biological assessments of radiation risks for living organisms⁷⁶.

Institute of Mechanics

In May 2023, Shenzhou-XVI was successfully launched. This mission includes a biomechanics study led by Dr. Long Mian, a researcher at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, focusing on the effects of the microgravity environment on cell interactions and growth. The study co-cultures human hepatocytes and endothelial cells, which are primary components of liver tissue, to simulate a basic liver tissue structure. It aims to examine the effects of microgravity, artificially induced forced convection, and fluid shear stress on these cells. The research seeks to understand the mechanisms by which mechanical signals from gravity changes are transformed into biological signals. Additionally, this type of research helps address health issues on Earth, such as osteoporosis, which is similar to the bone loss experienced by astronauts in long-term microgravity environments, thereby enhancing our understanding of its biomechanical mechanisms^77,78,79.

Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences

In December 2002, Shenzhou-IV was successfully launched. The space cell electrofusion project carried on this mission included plant cell fusion and animal cell electrofusion. The plant cell part was managed by Zheng Huiqiong’s team from the Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences. After recovering the samples, it was found that the fusion rate of experimental cells exceeded 10%, which was 10 times higher than the fusion rate on Earth, and the cell survival rate was over 50%, exceeding the ground rate by 15%^80,81.

In September 2006, China’s first satellite dedicated to breeding, Shijian-8, was successfully launched, carrying China’s first “space vegetable.” Zheng Huiqiong’s team, responsible for this project, discovered that under space microgravity conditions, the flowering, leaf growth, and germination of the vegetable were slower compared to on Earth. They also found that the vegetable’s seeds, seedlings, and leaves lost their sense of direction due to the absence of gravity and could not be successfully pollinated⁸².

In 2011, Zheng Huiqiong discovered that the callus tissue of Arabidopsis thaliana carried by the Shenzhou-8 spacecraft exhibited significant changes in the expression of proteins involved in stress response, carbohydrate metabolism, protein synthesis, intracellular transport, signal transduction, and cell wall biosynthesis when exposed to microgravity⁸³.

In April 2016, Shijian-10 returned to Earth. The higher plant experiment managed by Zheng Huiqiong’s team used Arabidopsis thaliana and rice, an important food crop, to study the flowering patterns induced by photoperiod under microgravity conditions^71,84.

At the same time, Cai Weiming’s team used Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings as model organisms on the SJ-10 satellite to study how plants perceive weightlessness. The team discovered that spaceflight microgravity affects the level of DNA methylation in plants⁸⁵. Subsequent research revealed that the impact of space microgravity on DNA methylation can persist into the next generation and affect gene expression in the progeny. This influence gradually diminishes with successive generations⁸⁶.

In June 2022, Shenzhou-XIV was successfully launched. Among the numerous life science projects aboard the space station, Zheng Huiqiong’s team from the Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences undertook the “Molecular Mechanisms of Flowering Regulation in Higher Plants under Microgravity” project. This experiment focused on the effects and changes in the entire life cycle of Arabidopsis thaliana and rice from seed to seed under space microgravity conditions; it aimed to decode the molecular basis of microgravity-regulated flowering in long-day and short-day plants and identify key genes affected by microgravity; and to analyze the potential adaptive mechanisms of plants to the space environment under long-term space microgravity conditions^87,88,89.

In June 2023, the return capsule of the Shenzhou-XV spacecraft successfully landed. During this mission, the research team led by Cai Weiming undertook the project “Study on the Molecular Network Regulating the Structure and Function of Plant Cells in the Space Microgravity Environment.” For the first time in space, they conducted research on Arabidopsis and rice LAZY family mutants and transgenic plants⁹⁰.

Institute of Hydrobiology

In 2003, Liu Yongding’s team conducted a space flight experiment with the algal material Nostoc sphaeroides Kütz carried aboard a returnable satellite. They measured its survival rate, photosynthetic activity, and pigments in the photosynthetic system, and observed the ultrastructure of the algal cells⁹¹. In 2016, using the SIMBOX launch opportunity of the Shenzhou VIII spacecraft, they studied the effects of true microgravity on the photosynthetic activity of Euglena. The study found that microgravity reduced photosynthetic activity (Fv/Fm) and increased the intracellular content of chlorophyll a and carotenoids⁹².

In 2024, the project “Research on Key Technologies of Advanced Aquatic Life Support System in Space,” led by Professor Wang’s team^91,93,94 from the Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Professor Zheng’s team from the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, will be conducted aboard the Shenzhou-XVIII manned spacecraft. This project will establish a small aquatic ecosystem composed of zebrafish and hornwort in the space station, aiming to study the effects of the space environment on fish growth and development, ecosystem operation, and material cycling⁹⁵.

Institute of Zoology

In 2017, the project “Embryonic Stem Cell Culture Experiment in Microgravity” led by Duan Enkui’s team^74,96 from the State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology at the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, was conducted on the Tianzhou-1 cargo spacecraft. The main objective was to study mouse embryonic stem cells’ proliferation and differentiation characteristics in a microgravity environment. By comparing the results with parallel experiments conducted under 1G and simulated microgravity conditions, the research aimed to comprehensively understand the effects of microgravity on the proliferation and differentiation of embryonic stem cells, and to explore the role and mechanisms of (micro)gravity in these processes.

The experiment used Tianzhou-1 to carry Oct4-GFP mouse embryonic stem cells, Oct4-GFP mouse embryoid bodies, and Brachyury-GFP mouse embryoid bodies. Ordinary light and fluorescence microscopy were employed to observe the proliferation and differentiation processes of the stem cells in space. The maintenance (self-renewal) of pluripotency genes and cell differentiation in microgravity were assessed through changes in the intensity of green fluorescent signals and morphological modifications of ES and EB cells in bright field imaging. For the first time, advanced live-cell fluorescence tracing technology used on the ground was applied in space to observe the expression of target genes in real time using continuous space-based fluorescence microscopy, thereby determining the expression status of the target genes.

Simultaneously, the team led by Zhao Yong at the State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology of the Institute of Zoology researched “The Effects of Microgravity on Liver Stem Cell Proliferation” in space. This involved the three-dimensional culture of liver stem cells to observe how the microgravity environment in space affects their proliferation. Using rat liver stem cell lines as the research subject, the liver stem cells were attached to microcarriers. The study observed changes in cell morphology, density, and green fluorescent protein through space microphotography and image transmission technology. It monitored the three-dimensional culture and proliferation of liver stem cells under microgravity conditions in space and compared the images with ground control images. The aim was to preliminarily reveal the mechanism by which microgravity affects liver stem cell proliferation, providing a basis for establishing a liver stem cell expansion culture system in the future⁹⁷.

Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology

In December 2002, Liu Min’s team conducted a plant tissue culture experiment aboard the “Shenzhou-IV” spacecraft, with a flight duration of 7 days and 108 orbits around the Earth^98,99. Upon return, the team performed morphological, physiological, cellular ultrastructure observations, and RAPD molecular marker detection on the tissue culture plants. The experimental materials included rose, raspberry, potato, carnation, and pepino⁹⁸. In 2012, Liu Min’s team used a 3D clinostat to simulate microgravity effects and employed gene chip technology to analyze changes in the mRNA expression profile of Arabidopsis under simulated microgravity, thus analyzing and elucidating the response of plant root tips to simulated microgravity effects at the molecular level¹⁰⁰. In 2014, by carrying Arabidopsis seedlings aboard the “Shenzhou 8” spacecraft, they aimed to screen for stably expressed reference genes in Arabidopsis seedlings under spaceflight conditions¹⁰¹.

In 2016, Dai Jianwu’s team, as part of the SJ-10 Satellite project, conducted the first study on the three-dimensional culture of hematopoietic and neural stem cells under microgravity conditions. The research aimed to reveal the fundamental principles of three-dimensional cell growth under microgravity and its effects on self-renewal, differentiation, and function. The study also explored new approaches to address global challenges such as non-differentiative proliferation of stem cells, efficiently directed differentiation, and three-dimensional tissue construction^102,103.

Institute of Mechanics

In May 2023, the Shenzhou-XVI spacecraft was successfully launched. This mission included a biomechanical study led by Dr. Long Mian, a researcher from the Institute of Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, on the effects of the microgravity environment on cell-to-cell interactions and cell growth. This study co-cultured human hepatocytes and endothelial cells, the main components of liver tissue, to simulate the basic structure of liver tissue—the research aimed to investigate the effects of microgravity-forced convection and fluid shear stress on these cells. The goal was to understand the intrinsic mechanisms by which mechanical signals due to gravity changes are converted into biological signals. Additionally, such studies help address terrestrial health issues; for instance, the bone loss experienced by astronauts in long-term microgravity environments is similar to osteoporosis, enhancing our understanding of the mechanobiological mechanisms underlying these conditions^78,79,104.

In 2017, Wang Changyong and Zhou Jin from the Academy of Military Medical Sciences collaborated with Na Jie from Tsinghua University School of Medicine to reprogram fibroblasts carrying the pluripotency reporter Oct4-GFP and the cardiac-specific reporter aMHC-GFP into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). These cells were then placed into the microfluidic chip of the bioreactor on the Tianzhou-1 cargo spacecraft and continuously cultured for 14 days. During this period, real-time imaging studies of the cardiac differentiation and self-renewal of the iPSCs were conducted. The collaborative research team found that cardiac cell differentiation in the microgravity environment was significantly enhanced. Additionally, the spreading and migration behaviors of the iPSCs in the self-renewal culture medium increased under microgravity conditions, and their ability to maintain pluripotency was significantly enhanced compared to the ground control^105,106.

In 2017, Zhang Xizheng’s team used the tail suspension method to simulate the microgravity environment of space and established a mouse model of osteoporosis. They explored the effects and impact of physiological cyclic dynamic loading and overload on microgravity-induced osteoporosis, aiming to find a simple prevention or treatment method for orthopedic diseases related to long-term outer space activities for astronauts¹⁰⁷. In 2021, the team studied the role and molecular mechanism of circ_014154 in regulating osteoblast differentiation under microgravity, hoping to provide new strategies for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of weightlessness/disuse osteoporosis and other related diseases. They discovered that the circ_014154/let-7i-5p/NF-κb1/NF-κB pathway might represent a new regulatory network¹⁰⁸.

Researcher Hu Wendong from the Department of Aerospace Medicine at the Air Force Medical University focuses on aerospace medical engineering and psychological assessment techniques. His work includes developing psychological selection systems for pilots, astronauts, and military personnel to evaluate their psychological qualities and adaptability^109,110,111. He researches psychological health maintenance in extreme military environments, particularly stress and trauma-related psychological interventions and recovery^112,113,114. Additionally, he studies the effects of microgravity, radiation, and other space environment factors on human health, especially the cardiovascular system^115,116,117.

Professor Sun Xiqing from the Department of Aerospace Medicine at the Air Force Medical University, Aerospace Medicine Training and Research Office was the first to propose a countermeasure plan using lower body negative pressure for the effects of weightlessness during medium- and long-term space flights in China^118,119,120. He also led research on oxygen pre-breathing and nitrogen washout protocols for astronauts’ extravehicular activities¹²¹ and selecting tasks for decompression sickness susceptibility¹²². He was the first to propose the multiple mechanism theory of high g-force-induced brain injury^123,124 and established lower body negative pressure training methods for high-performance fighter pilots. He developed specialized training equipment for pilots, which has been promoted and applied in the military^125,126.

His research team previously developed a vestibular illusion simulation training system capable of simulating the effects of complex accelerations on the human body during flight^127,128. Researchers used this system to conduct vestibular stimulation, comparing changes in subjects’ cardiovascular function¹²⁹, cognitive function¹³⁰, and vestibular symptoms before and after training. This provided experimental evidence for establishing a vestibular illusion simulation training program for flight personnel¹³⁰.

Director of the Space Biomedical Laboratory at the Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Liu Changting has been engaged in space biomedical research for 20 years. He established the first space biomedical research team in China and founded the country’s first space biomedical laboratory. His work includes systematic and comprehensive research on space microbiology and weightlessness biology, leading to the establishment of the discipline of space microbiology, focusing on space microbiology and its related technologies.

Liu’s team collaborated with over 30 domestic institutions to establish the first space microbiology data center, providing a data development platform for space microbiology research worldwide. The team has conducted space microbiology experiments on missions including Shenzhou-VIII, IX, X, XI, and Tiangong I and II, achieving multiple patents and scientific results.

Liu Changting led the research team in carrying recombinant interferon α1b strains aboard Shenzhou-VIII, resulting in five high-yield strains with up to threefold increased production, maintaining stability after 50 generations^131,132.

Onboard the Shenzhou-X spacecraft, the enzyme-producing Rhodococcus exhibited a 3.5-fold increase in production and demonstrated excellent stability. Its metabolites are useful in the industrial production of recombinant proteins, such as insulin and its analogs, offering high specificity, efficiency, and stability. Additionally, some lactobacilli strains subjected to space mutagenesis showed accelerated acid production rates, increased yields of phenyl lactic acid and 4-hydroxyphenyl lactic acid, enhanced total antioxidant capacity, and improved resistance to adverse gastrointestinal conditions. Based on these strains, a composite probiotic space strain, ST20, has been developed^133,134.

In 2017, the Shenzhou-XI manned spacecraft was successfully launched. This space mission carried 62 strains of microorganisms provided by the PLA General Hospital, including five major categories: clinical super-resistant bacteria, opportunistic pathogens, standard strains, corrosion bacteria, and engineered bacteria¹³⁵.

Tsinghua University

On April 20, 2017, Professor Kehkooi Kee’s research team^136,137 at the Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine at Tsinghua University School of Medicine completed human embryonic stem cells’ induction and differentiation system into early germ cells. They observed cell morphology for 33 days using an automatic fluid exchange remote control method¹³⁸.

On May 10, 2023, Kehkooi Kee’s team transported human embryonic stem cells to the Tiangong Space Station’s Wentian module aboard the Tianzhou-6 cargo spacecraft to study the effects of the space microgravity environment on the differentiation of stem cells into germ cells. The project’s objectives are: 1) to provide a new experimental model for the study of embryonic stem cell differentiation; 2) to provide theoretical basis and technical support for overcoming potential impacts of the space environment on human germ cells; 3) to offer theoretical support for improving space fertility, achieving space migration, and enabling space reproduction¹³⁹.

In 2017, to develop more effective drugs for treating osteoporosis, the research team led by Guoqiang Chen sent 3-hydroxybutyric acid (3HB) into space for the first time. 3HB is a small molecule naturally found in mammals. By treating bone-related cells with 3HB and using a fluorescence microscope to observe cell morphology, quantity, and other indicators in a microgravity environment, the team aimed to determine whether these cells thrive in space and to evaluate their therapeutic effects on osteoporosis at the cellular level¹⁴⁰.

In June 2023, the research team led by Professors Xiong Zhuo and Zhang Ting from the Department of Mechanical Engineering successfully conducted an on-orbit experiment with their tumor model space 3D printing and culture system (weighing only 6 kg) aboard the Lijian-1 Yao-2 carrier rocket, pioneering the field of tumor model space 3D printing. The team developed a thermosensitive bioink and suspension medium system suitable for the microgravity environment of space, featuring excellent biocompatibility, printing performance, room temperature storage, and leak-proof characteristics. This solved the challenges of on-orbit printing and in-situ culture of tumor model samples. Additionally, they proposed a dual-color fluorescence microscopy space in-situ automatic imaging technology based on deep learning algorithms and designed a software system for automatic telemetry, control, and analysis. This system enables on-orbit printing, automatic focusing, fluorescence imaging, and data transmission of tumor model samples^141,142.

Southeast University

In November 2022, the Shenzhou-XV manned spacecraft was launched. During this mission, the Space Vascular Tissue Chip (Taikonaut-Blood-Vessels-on-a-Chip, Taikonaut) developed jointly by the Southeast University Institute of Biomedical Devices (Suzhou), the Astronaut Center of China, the State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, and Jiangsu Avatarget Biotechnology Co., Ltd. completed the world’s first cultivation experiment of a vascular tissue chip under long-term microgravity conditions after more than 30 months of relentless effort^51,143,144.

Professor Song Aiguo from the School of Instrument Science and Engineering leads the “Teleoperation Robotics Technology” team, which participated in developing the astronaut space station operation force measurement system. Addressing the problem of hatch opening difficulty encountered during the Shenzhou-VII mission in 2008, the team collaborated with the Astronaut Center of China in 2012 to solve the precise measurement of operational forces and biomechanics in a weightless environment. They successfully developed sensors and systems for measuring the operational forces of astronauts in a simulated underwater weightless environment. The team also completed the operational force collection system for the weightless aircraft at the Astronaut Center of China. This system successfully conducted operational force experiments on French weightless planes in 2013 and 2014. Further collaboration with the Astronaut Center of China led to the development of onboard operational force measurement sensors and equipment for Tiangong-2 and the space station. These devices can measure the astronauts’ finger pinching force, hand gripping force, pushing and pulling force, dual-hand plugging force, dual-hand rotational torque, single-arm/dual-arm/handwheel rotational torque, multidimensional hand force, and foot force in orbit. The equipment was launched with Tiangong-2 in September 2016 and with the space station’s core module in April 2021, completing the biomechanical measurement tasks for astronauts from Shenzhou-XI to Shenzhou-XVII, and will continue to operate in orbit long-term^145,146.

Beihang University

“Lunar Palace 1” is a ground-based integrated experimental device for life support artificial closed ecological systems, established by Beihang University. It is a sealed cabin system designed to conduct ground-based experimental research on life support systems for lunar bases. Based on the principles of ecosystems, it integrates biotechnology and engineering control technologies to construct an artificial closed ecological system composed of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Essential substances for human life, such as oxygen, water, and food, can be recycled within the system, providing life support that mimics Earth’s ecological environment¹⁴⁷.

In 2004, Professor Liu Hong from Beihang University began research on the Bioregenerative Life Support System (BLSS), focusing on the key technologies, fundamental theories, and regulatory methods from the unit level to the system level. She established the basic theories, technological frameworks, and research methods for BLSS for space life support. In 2013, the first four-biological-chain closed-loop ecological system, the “Lunar Palace 1” ground-based integrated experiment facility, was independently developed.

In 2014, China completed its first long-term, high-closure experiment involving multiple people, lasting 105 days. During this experiment, the system achieved 100% recycling of oxygen and water, and 55% of the food, with the overall closure of the system reaching 97%. The results from this experiment provided theoretical and fundamental technological support for life support in future deep space exploration missions¹⁴⁸.

The “Lunar Palace 365” experiment began on May 10, 2017, and concluded on May 10, 2018, making it the world’s longest-running and highest-closure bio-regenerative life support system experiment. Its primary task was to study how a biological system can provide life support for crew members with varying metabolic levels while maintaining system stability. The “Lunar Palace 365” experiment achieved long-term stable operation of a higher-closure and more biologically diverse artificial closed-loop ecosystem consisting of humans, plants, animals, and microorganisms while ensuring the physical and mental health of the participants^{149,150,151,152}.

Soochow University

On October 16, 2021, Professor Hu Shijun and Professor Shen Zhenya from the Institute for Cardiovascular Science of Soochow University, in collaboration with Professor Li Yinghui’s team from the China Astronaut Research and Training Center, successfully conducted China’s first live cell research aboard the Tiangong space station. They sent cardiomyocytes derived from human urine cell-induced pluripotent stem cells into space aboard the Shenzhou 13 spacecraft. The team recorded calcium fluorescence probe signals synchronized with the autonomous beating of the cardiomyocytes in space. By combining space and ground simulation experiments, they made groundbreaking progress in understanding the effects of microgravity on human cardiomyocytes, revealing for the first time the crucial role of thiamine (vitamin B1) in maintaining cardiomyocyte homeostasis and function under space microgravity conditions^26,153.

The State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection at Soochow University explores the biological effects and mechanisms of different LET radiation, the effects of radiation on stem cells, and the biological effects of space radiation. This research not only elucidates the molecular mechanisms¹⁵⁴ of ionizing radiation damage but also lays a scientific theoretical foundation for improving the precision of radiotherapy and the safety of manned spaceflight^155,156. Yan Congchong’s team investigates the radiation dose from space radiation particle spectra on astronauts, aiding in studying space radiation particle effects and further enhancing astronaut safety protection mechanisms¹⁵⁷.

Beijing Institute of Technology

Institute of Space Biology and Medical Engineering of Beijing Institute of Technology focuses on the needs of manned spaceflight and space science, with a focus on key technologies for space biology experimental platforms, space life science payloads, real-time testing (POCT) technology

Beijing Institute of Technology focuses on the needs of manned spaceflight and space science, conducting key research on technologies for space biological experiment platforms, space life science payloads, real-time detection (POCT)¹⁵⁸ of astronauts’ physiological and biochemical indicators, and the biological effects of space radiation.

In 2011, the “Microfluidic Chip Gene Amplification Device,” independently developed by Professor Deng Yulin’s team from the School of Life Sciences at Beijing Institute of Technology and a member of the International Academy of Astronautics, was carried aboard the ‘Shenzhou- VIII’ spacecraft. This device was used to study the occurrence of missense mutations in the polymerase chain reaction process of human genes under space conditions. This achievement marked a breakthrough in the field of microfluidic chip space application technology in China. It was the first time China conducted genetic experiments in space, achieving in-orbit detection¹⁵⁹.

In 2016, the “Space Cell and Microorganism Culture Experimental Device,” developed by the team of Professor Deng Yulin from Beijing Institute of Technology’s Space Life Science Department in collaboration with the relevant research team from the China Academy of Space Technology’s Manned Spaceflight Division, was carried aboard the “Long March VII” launch vehicle. This space experiment project is part of the national major scientific instrument and equipment development special project “Space Multi-Indicator Biochemical Analysis Instruments and Devices.” The primary focus of this project, addressing the needs of manned spaceflight, is to study the proliferation and mutation of cells and microorganisms in the space environment and the potential impacts of these changes on space biosecurity, particularly on the long-term operational safety of spacecraft platforms¹⁶⁰.

In June 2017, the “Space Microfluidic Chip Biological Culture and Analysis Payload,” independently developed by Deng Yulin’s team, was successfully launched aboard the “Tianzhou-I” spacecraft. This device conducted experimental research on the interactions between the nervous and immune systems. In the same year, the “Space Environment-Induced Microevolution Experiment Payload,” also developed by the same institute, was transported to the International Space Station (ISS) by the American SpaceX company’s “Dragon” cargo spacecraft. This device is significant for exploring the impact of the space environment on molecular evolution and for the prevention and treatment of genetic diseases¹⁶¹.

On May 29, 2021, the “Long March VII” carrier rocket successfully launched the “Tianzhou-II” cargo spacecraft into space, which then successfully docked with the Tianhe core module. In this mission, Professor Lu Jiping from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Beijing Institute of Technology led a team that conducted work related to the space station project in areas such as test experiments, tooling design, and human factor operation simulation. They participated in the constant force installation tests for the spacesuit backpack used for extravehicular activities¹⁶².

The experimental payload of the extraterrestrial habitation module microbial control technology project includes two parts: the “extraterrestrial habitation module microbial detection module” and the “on-orbit experimental chip consumables.”

On October 31, 2022, the “extraterrestrial habitation module microbial detection module” was launched with the Mengtian lab module, providing equipment assurance and scientific data support for subsequent on-orbit research on rapid detection and high-throughput cultivation of specific microorganisms. The detection chip in the module employs an integrated automated nucleic acid amplification detection technology developed by the team, enabling instantaneous sample detection. Additionally, an innovative sample injection interface suitable for the space environment was designed, facilitating astronaut operation¹⁶³.

In November 2022, the “Microfluidic Chip Radiation Damage Biodosimeter” payload, developed in collaboration between Beijing Institute of Technology and Beijing Institute of Technology Genshu Technology Co., Ltd., was successfully launched aboard the “Tianzhou-V” cargo spacecraft. This payload is intended for research on new technologies and methods for in-orbit radiation damage risk monitoring¹⁶⁴.

On May 10, 2023, the “Tianzhou-VI” cargo spacecraft was successfully launched. Among the items sent to the space station with this mission were “on-orbit experiment chip consumables,” including detection chips and culture chips. The detection chips, independently developed by the Beijing Institute of Technology Genshu Space Microfluidic Technology and Medical Testing Team, utilize integrated, automated nucleic acid amplification detection technology. These chips are characterized by low power consumption, high precision, high sensitivity, and biosafety, making them suitable for autonomous operation by astronauts¹⁶⁵.

The culture chips, developed by Professor Zhang Ying’s team at the School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, eliminate competitive inhibition of microbial growth, significantly enhancing the cultivable properties of space microorganisms. This advancement facilitates the efficient collection of space microbial germplasm resources, potentially aiding in the development of new antibiotics in the space environment. The culture chips have already arrived at the laboratory of the School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, where initial evaluations confirmed that the chip structure and internal microbial status are intact. Professor Zhang Ying’s research group will subsequently utilize these chips to conduct comprehensive space microbiology research, including studies on metabolism, breeding, ecology, and evolution^166,167.

On January 17, 2024, the Tianzhou-VII cargo spacecraft successfully docked with the space station. In this mission, Professor Zhang Ying from the School of Life Science at Beijing Institute of Technology is mainly responsible for microbiology research. The payload includes four space microbial detection chips and two high-throughput space microbial culture chips. This research project, in collaboration with Professor Liu Weijie’s team from Jiangsu Normal University, focuses on rapid and precise detection technology of space microorganisms, the mechanisms of space microbial metabolic corrosion, and the molecular mechanisms of space microbial biofilm formation¹⁶⁸.

Dalian Maritime University

In November 2020, the Chang’e-V probe was successfully launched. This mission included rice seeds of the Japonica variety (300 seeds) and Arabidopsis seeds (Col 1000 seeds, PIN2 1000 seeds, pgm-1 500 seeds, ttg-1 1000 seeds) selected by the Environmental Systems Biology Research Institute of Dalian Maritime University, totaling 22 g of seeds. The objective was to study the mechanisms of genetic variation induced by space radiation. By conducting multiple space flights with different genetic backgrounds and comparing ground simulations with varying doses and energies of particles, researchers aimed to identify the primary inducers of cosmic radiation-induced mutations¹⁶⁹.

In November 2022, the Shenzhou-XV manned spacecraft was successfully launched. This mission included the “Space Radiation Measurement and Biological Damage Assessment Technology” project undertaken by Professor Sun Yeqing’s team from the College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering at Dalian Maritime University. This project used microfluidic technology to overcome key technologies such as automated cultivation, movement, and imaging of nematodes. Collaborating with the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics Chinese Academy of Sciences, the team successfully developed the flight payload and conducted system tests in spaceflight. This marks the first time model organisms for space environment research were loaded into the space environment. The project aims to conduct automated real-time monitoring of nematode growth and tissue organ damage in the space radiation environment. Post-recovery, functional genomic sequencing of space-treated samples, along with correlation analysis of space radiation parameters, will be conducted to study space radiation measurement and damage assessment technologies and to analyze the synergistic biological effects of space radiation and microgravity^170,171,172.

In May 2023, the Tianzhou-VI cargo spacecraft successfully launched, carrying the “Space Radiation Biology Exposure Experiment Device”. This device will be installed outside the Mengtian module of the space station to study radiation damage warning and protection, space radiation genetic variation, and the origins and evolution of life. It is the only biological experiment payload exposed outside the space station. The device includes a space biology experiment payload developed by Professor Sun Yeqing’s team from Dalian Maritime University, in collaboration with the Space Environment Detection Laboratory team from the National Space Science Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

This device supports real-time in-orbit experiments on model organisms at different developmental stages and periods. It can achieve automated in-orbit one-month full life cycle cultivation, and automated observation of the development, movement, tissues, organs, and fluorescence labeling of various single nematodes. The device features real-time online space radiation data monitoring and real-time transmission, and it uses passive radiation detection materials in the sample boxes to provide more accurate radiation doses for the biological samples, meeting the project requirements for cosmic radiation measurement¹⁷³.

In the same year, Shenzhou-XVI was successfully launched. This time, Professor Sun Yeqing’s team led two projects involving “liquid and solid nematodes”. These projects were ‘The Effects of Space Radiation Exposure on DNA Damage Repair and Apoptosis in Nematode Development’ and “Key Technologies for the Scientific and Applied Assessment of Space Radiation Damage”.The first project involved placing nematodes in media containing amino acids, nucleic acids, etc., focusing on the impact of radiation on individual development. The second project used agar media to cultivate nematodes, mainly focusing on the study of radiation damage and protection for populations¹⁰⁴.

Xiamen University

On May 30, 2023, the Shenzhou-XVI manned spacecraft was successfully launched. The project titled “Molecular Evolution Study on the Co-origin of Protein and Nucleic Acid and the Origin of Codons,” led by Academician Zhao Yufen from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Professor at the College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering of Xiamen University, in collaboration with the Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Gongshang University, and Ningbo University, entered the Wentian module of the space station along with the Shenzhou-XVI crew. Assisted by the Shenzhou-XVI crew, the project will conduct in-orbit experiments. This project is pioneering in its approach by combining nucleotides, amino acids, and phosphorus to explore the origin of codons, and examining the relationship between gravity effects and the evolution of life. It is the first to achieve in-orbit in situ chemical reactions and dynamic reaction monitoring. The results of this project are expected to provide significant scientific evidence for improving the theoretical system of the chemical origin of life and for identifying habitable extraterrestrial planets^174,175.

On April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-XVIII manned spacecraft was successfully launched. The scientific payload mission of “Shenzhou-XVIII” is a continuation, iteration, and expansion of the in-orbit experiments conducted by Academician Zhao Yufen’s team on “Shenzhou-XVI”. Utilizing the true microgravity environment of the space station, a “ternary reaction system” was constructed using phosphorus, amino acids, and nucleosides as raw materials. This system aims to establish N-phosphorylated amino acids as the smallest “molecular evolution system”. The goal is to explore, at the molecular level, how fundamental biochemical reactions respond to the microgravity environment, and to investigate the role and potential molecular mechanisms of gravity in the chemical origins of life, particularly in the process of codon origin^176,177.

Northwestern Polytechnical University

The Key Laboratory of Space Bioscience & Biotechnology at the School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, is the first provincial and ministerial-level key laboratory in Chinese universities specializing in space biology and biotechnology research. Its main research content includes: 1) Conducting research on “Space Gravity Environment Simulation Technology and Biological Effects,” including aspects such as the biological effects of space gravity, growth of large biomolecular crystals in space, space cell, and tissue engineering, protective drugs and equipment against space bone loss, and the synthesis of porous biomedical materials under microgravity conditions^178,179. 2) Conducting research on “Space Heavy Particle Radiation and Gravity Combined Simulation Technology and Biological Effects,” involving the molecular and cellular biological effects of combined environments, the biological effects of combined environments on model organisms, and the development of protective drugs against combined environments¹⁸⁰. 3) Conducting research on “Space Hypomagnetic and Zero Magnetic Field Environment Simulation Technology and Biological Effects,” including studies on the molecular and cellular biological effects of space hypomagnetic field environments, the biological effects of space hypomagnetic field environments combined with microgravity environments on model organisms, and related aspects¹⁸¹. The Research Center for Biomedical Diagnosis and Protection Technologies in Aerospace Special Environments aims to meet the research and development needs for critical core technologies and high-end equipment in biomedical diagnosis and health protection specific to aerospace special environments. This center aims to solve challenges in biomedical diagnosis and protective equipment for aerospace special environments, achieving theoretical innovation, technological breakthroughs, equipment development, and engineering applications.

In 2017, Professor Shang Peng, the first dean of the School of Life Sciences at Northwestern Polytechnical University, founding director of the “Key Discipline Laboratory of Space Biology Experiment Simulation Technology,” and an academician of the International Academy of Astronautics, undertook the ‘Tianzhou-I’ experimental project “Study on the Effects of Microgravity on Cell Proliferation and Differentiation.” The aim was to investigate the long-term effects of a microgravity environment on bone tissue cells, and the experiment was set to last a total of 21 days¹⁸².

In October 2023, the Shenzhou-XVII manned spacecraft was successfully launched. Professor Shang Peng’s “Space Life Sciences and Aerospace Medicine Team” will conduct research on the impact of long-term weightlessness on astronauts’ health aboard the space station, focusing on skeletal health in a weightless environment. The aim of this research is to further elucidate the mechanisms leading to bone loss in space and to provide new theoretical foundations and experimental support for astronaut skeletal health protection measures.

Additionally, during this mission, Lu Huimeng’s team from the School of Life Sciences will explore the space preparation of degradable bionic bone materials using bioinformatics, biomimetic materials science, and physiology. Qin Xinghua’s team will investigate the mechanisms of radiation damage to biological macromolecules by constructing a crystal radiation damage amplifier, aiming to clarify the fundamental issues of radiation’s harmful effects on life and health¹⁸³.

In January 2024, a space life science experiment project undertaken by Professor Shang Peng’s team, part of the manned spaceflight program’s space application system, was launched into orbit aboard the “Tianzhou-VII” cargo spacecraft. The team’s mission is to study the effects and mechanisms of space microgravity on bone tissue cells. By conducting in-orbit experiments, they aim to obtain biological data on bone tissue cells and analyze their functions after samples return to Earth. The research seeks to explore the sensing and response patterns of bone tissue cells to changes in the space microgravity environment, thereby further elucidating the cellular and molecular mechanisms of space-induced bone loss¹⁸⁴.

Space Science and Technology Institute (Shenzhen)

On December 14, 2016, the institute completed the “Green Aerospace-4-Person 180-Day Controlled Ecological Life Support System Integration Experiment”. This experiment was the first large-scale international ‘man and environment’ experiment led by China with participation from multiple countries. The Space Science and Technology Institute took the lead, with the Astronaut Center of China providing technical support. The experiment was jointly launched with the participation of the French National Centre for Space Studies, the German Aerospace Center, the Harbin Institute of Technology, the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Shenzhen BGI Life Sciences Research Institute, among other domestic and international institutions. This experiment comprehensively carried out system simulation, system control and management technology, material flow regulation, atmospheric environment regulation, plant cultivation, and food production technology, environmental monitoring and control technology, wastewater (waste) recycling and reuse technology, and systematic research on crew physiology, psychology, and ergonomics^{185,186,187,188}.

2) On May 13, 2018, the “12-Person, 24-Day Human Low Metabolism Regulation Technology Experiment” was initiated. Volunteers from the Astronaut Center of China, Space Science and Technology Institute, Beihang University, Harbin Institute of Technology, and other Chinese institutions participated. They completed all experimental tasks for each phase, including the adaptation period, low metabolism period, refeeding period, and recovery period.

The experiment collected over 600 samples of blood, urine, feces, and saliva. In addition to routine monitoring, four major categories of 114 physiological and psychological indicators were measured at six key time points. These included routine physiological indicators, complete blood counts, blood biochemistry, routine urine biochemistry, metabolic hormones, nutritional status, and psychological cognition. Over 9000 data points were obtained. All indicators met the set requirements, and the volunteers remained in good physical condition¹⁸⁹.

3) From May to November 2019, the “Earth-Star II” 90-day head-down bed rest experiment was successfully conducted. The full name of the experiment is the “90-day Human −6° Head-Down Bed Rest Experiment,” which aimed to provide important data for the long-term health and safety of astronauts on China’s space station missions and to verify various protective measures to ensure astronauts’ health^190,191.

The “Earth-Star II” experiment was implemented in three main stages: a 15-day pre-bed rest adaptation testing period, a 90-day bed rest period, and a 33-day post-bed rest recovery testing period. During the bed rest period, 37 anti-gravity physiological effect countermeasures and interventions were applied and tested on different groups of volunteers. After bed rest, systematic validation of astronaut recovery plans was carried out. Various tests were conducted throughout the experiment, including assessments of orthostatic tolerance, exercise cardiopulmonary function, muscle strength, muscle volume, and bone density¹⁹².

4) From October to November 2020, the “Green Aerospace One” 15-day head-down bed rest experiment was successfully conducted¹⁹³. This project was led in collaboration with Tsinghua University, Beijing Sport University, Peking University, Xidian University, the Institute of Psychology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Longgang District Central Hospital of Shenzhen, and the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University. The experiment aimed to observe the physiological effects of simulated weightlessness on cardiovascular function, muscles, eyes, thermal physiology, and cognitive abilities. It also tested cardiovascular function intervention strategies and provided experimental data to support the nutritional requirements and psychological health assessment of astronauts for manned space missions^{194,195,196,197}.

5) In March 2024, the institute, in collaboration with Beihang University, Tianjin University, Tiantan Hospital, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou Cixiaotang Technology Co., Ltd., Huntkey Electric Co., Ltd., and Juanzhi Biomedical Research Laboratory (Foshan), conducted a 15-day total fasting human low-metabolism experiment code-named ‘Green Aerospace Voyage VII’ from March to April 2024¹⁹⁸.

The experiment aimed to explore the safe exercise load for the human body during total fasting, study the changes in metabolism and energy consumption during fasting exercise, and the metabolism patterns of energy substrates, carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. It also analyzed the changes in micro and macro nutritional elements in the human body under long-term fasting conditions, explored the psychological roles of hope and grit during total fasting, and established guidelines for low-metabolism fasting human experiments. The ultimate goal was to investigate nutritional supplementation and psychological counseling strategies during fasting under special conditions. This research provides scientific data and theoretical support for constructing fasting low-metabolism implementation plans under the special working conditions of space missions¹⁹⁹.

China has made significant strides in the field of aerospace medicine, encompassing multiple key research directions and application outcomes. Various major research institutions and hospitals, such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Northwestern Polytechnical University, and Beihang University, have made important contributions in different areas.

It is important to note that the aforementioned institutions and research outcomes represent only a portion of China’s aerospace medicine field. Many other research institutions and entities, such as the China Academy of Space Technology, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Capital Medical University, and the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, are also making significant contributions to the development of aerospace medicine.

As the exploration of space continues to deepen, current aerospace medicine research cannot fully meet the needs of long-term space residence and efficient work, especially in the development of aerospace clinical medicine, emergency medicine, and related equipment²⁰⁰. Through an understanding of the research status of multiple Chinese research institutions, it has been found that many institutions’ research on aerospace medicine mainly focuses on the impact of special space environments (microgravity, radiation, enclosed environment, etc.) on human systems, animals, cells, and microorganisms, health monitoring and daily exercise of astronauts in space stations, and improving astronauts’ adaptability in space (psychological, physiological, sleep, etc.), but there are gaps in the fields of sudden illness and severe emergency medical rescue.

It is understood that the medical equipment equipped in the Chinese space station is mostly small devices, such as physiological parameter monitoring systems (mainly composed of ECG monitors, non-invasive hemodynamic monitors, sleep monitors, etc.), health detectors, fully automated biochemical analyzers, TCM four-diagnosis instruments, color photography, two-photon microscopes, etc., lacking high-resolution, high-sensitivity large medical equipment. The unique environment of the space station likely necessitates that medical services be limited by weight, volume, and power constraints²⁰¹. To comprehensively explore the bodily changes caused by space factors such as weightlessness and radiation, developing large on-orbit medical equipment suitable for the space station will be an important approach.

In the future, with the continued development of China’s space program, aerospace medicine research will further deepen, particularly in space clinical and emergency medicine, space biology, space medical engineering, and space radiation biology. Through continuous technological innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration, China will make greater breakthroughs in improving astronaut health protection, exploring the effects of the space environment on human health, and developing aerospace medical equipment and technologies. This will not only contribute significantly to human space exploration and the improvement of life and health on Earth but also continue to play an important role in global aerospace medical research, consolidating China’s position in this field.