The Chinese is a step closer towards enhancing its survival capability in space. Endurance and sustaining the basic needs have been key factors during the trial run.
Four volunteers have accomplished approximately half a year of being confined inside a mock space colony. The group has been able to maximize the availability of their food, water and oxygen supplies.
Aside from adjusting their resources to the grueling demands of survival, the individuals have also been subjected to challenges related to emotional, psychological and physical elements.
Considering the successful outcome of the experiment, hopes are high that colonies will soon be established in the deep frontier. More importantly, potential space voyagers will be ready to cope up with the rigorous demands of exploring the abyss.
The artificial colony has been set-up in China's southern city of Shenzhen. It is astonishing to note that the developmental environment can maintain the components needed to survive. The inclusion of regeneration and recycling of oxygen is an essential part of sustaining life without replenishing the supply from the outside.
The participants are all scientists. The group has been led by Tang Yongkang who is also the only woman on the team. The three men have been identified as Luo Jie, Wu Shiyun and Tong Feizhou. All four are in high spirits following the end of their stay inside the induced ecosystem.
The experimental colony has been supported and advocated by the Astronaut Center of China, German Aerospace Center and Harvard University. The approach of the research study has also tackled the individuals' adaptability and responses which include sleeping patterns and body block changes.
Around 370 square meters of land space have been used to set-up the ecosystem. This includes eight compartments including a greenhouse that synthetically-housed farming essentials such as sweet potato, cabbage and soybeans.
Findings acquired during the study will be critical to China's long-term space expeditions. The giant nation has been considerably active in venturing the deep frontier with six manned explorations already mapped out.
