What Did Shenzhou Ⅺ Astronauts Do In Space?

With the launch of the Shenzhou Ⅺ manned spacecraft, Jing Haipeng and Chen Dong started the longest journey in space ever made by Chinese astronauts. Their life for the next 33 days was of great interest to the public. Huang Weifen, the deputy chief designer of the flight system, explained that the main missions of the two astronauts were 16 in-orbit experiments divided into four categories, including brain-computer interface, study of changes in smelling and taste senses, plant cultivation and cardiovascular function in zero gravity. They worked six days per week for eight hours each day. In their spare time, they took pictures, watched movies and spoke with their families. As for meals, over 100 dishes were available. During the autonomous phase of Shenzhou Ⅺ’s flight, they had light, easily digestible food such as porridge. This was because they would be likely to suffer from a lack of appetite at first. In the Tiangong-2 space laboratory, they had three meals a day as usual and different menus over five days. The Tiangong-2 was equipped with a food heater so that they could enjoy hot meals. Since physical side effects do come with the zero-gravity atmosphere, various measures will be taken to guarantee the astronauts’ health and efficiency. In terms of healthcare, the two astronauts received regular health assessments during the mission. A long-distance system for medical support was in place for them to consult with doctors while in space. In addition, protective devices were on hand to minimize potential adverse reactions to zero gravity.