On the orbital station "Tiangong," taikonauts conducted scientific experiments with lithium-ion batteries aimed at improving the performance of energy systems in space. This was reported by the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
The research was carried out by the crew of the "Shenzhou-21" spacecraft in collaboration with scientists from China on Earth.
The key task of the experiment, as clarified by the academy, was to study the effects of microgravity on important processes within the batteries. This will allow for the collection of important scientific data to enhance the efficiency of energy systems in spacecraft.
In addition, the academy's statement emphasizes that the unique conditions of microgravity in space create optimal conditions for studying the distribution of chemical substances in electrolytes.
The construction of the national orbital station "Tiangong" began on April 29, 2021, when the core module "Tianhe" was successfully launched into orbit. The assembly of the main configuration of the station was completed on November 3, 2022. Currently, the basic configuration of "Tiangong," which has a T-shaped form, includes the main module "Tianhe" and two laboratory modules — "Wentian" and "Mengtian," which are docked to it. The total weight of these three objects is approximately 69 tons. The living space of the station reaches about 110 cubic meters, allowing it to accommodate three people simultaneously, or six during crew changes. The expected operational lifespan of the station is 15 years, meaning it will be actively operational until 2038.
