China's Shenzhou-19 crew continues in-orbit scientific experiments

China's Shenzhou-19 crew, who has worked in the Tiangong space station for more than 150 days, made steady progress in neuroscience, medical, and microgravity physics experiments last week.

The experiments were conducted by the three astronauts -- Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong and Wang Haoze.

The trio used electroencephalogram devices to conduct multiple experimental tests. Data collected will help ground researchers explore how gravity affects visual-motor information processing, reveal the cognitive patterns and neural mechanisms of how humans perceive spatial relationships in a microgravity environment, and explore the regulatory effects of brainwave music intervention on inhibitory control functions during long-duration spaceflight.

After nearly six months in orbit, the astronauts also shared insights into life aboard the space station. Using questionnaires and video recordings, they documented their experience with the station's livability, real-time feedback on human-machine interfaces, and the layout of various onboard systems. Based on these data and findings, researchers can refine design processes, identify issues, and suggest targeted improvements to enhance the human-centered design of future spacecraft.

In medical research, the crew completed pharmacokinetics-related tasks, collecting valuable data to help shape future in-orbit medication strategies.

In the field of space technology, the team continued work on the reverse Brayton cryocooling experiment, assembling and testing components inside its payload cabin. This cooling technology, based on ultra-high-speed dynamic pressure gas bearings, aims to support future deep space missions and enhance China's space thermal control capabilities.

Meanwhile, several microgravity physics experiments continued. The crew replaced samples in the fluid physics and high-temperature materials experiment cabinets, performed vacuum operations, and managed gas exhaust procedures.

Environmental monitoring remained a priority as well. The astronauts measured airflow and temperature, tested air cleanliness, and conducted routine equipment inspections and maintenance.

In support of their health, the crew also completed a series of medical checks, including electrocardiograms, pulmonary function tests, and dynamic electrocardiogram and blood pressure monitoring, while actively engaging in countermeasures to mitigate the effects of weightlessness.

The Shenzhou-19 crewed spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Oct 30, 2024.

China's Shenzhou-19 crew continues in-orbit scientific experiments

China's Shenzhou-19 crew continues in-orbit scientific experiments

China's Shenzhou-19 crew continues in-orbit scientific experiments

China's Shenzhou-19 crew continues in-orbit scientific experiments

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that the situation in Iran is "under total control" following violence linked to protests that spiked over the weekend.

Addressing foreign diplomats in Tehran, the foreign minister noted that armed terrorist groups had infiltrated the protests, attempting to divert them from their legitimate course. He claimed that evidence has been gathered showing Iranian security forces being shot at, with the aim of causing further casualties. He accused the United States and Israel of exploiting the unrest to interfere in Iran's internal affairs.

Araghchi further stated that the government is closely monitoring developments on the streets, emphasizing that "the situation has come under control." He also affirmed that internet services, curtailed during the unrest, would be restored after coordination with security agencies.

The government has engaged in dialogue with merchants and protest representatives and initiated reforms to address grievances related to price hikes and currency depreciation. Iran has taken a series of actions and measures to respond to the demands of peaceful demonstrators, the foreign minister said.

Earlier on Sunday, Araghchi said that clear evidence links recent riots and vandalism of public facilities in Iran to the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. This came after former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo mentioned Mossad agents operating on Iran's streets in a social media post. The Iranian foreign minister asserted that police are being attacked by "terrorists" acting under the direction of Israeli operatives, whom Pompeo publicly acknowledged.

The protests initially erupted over a sharp depreciation of the rial and sweeping subsidy reforms. Iranian authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign-linked agents and U.S. sanctions.

Iranian foreign minister says situation "fully under control," accuses Israeli intelligence of stoking unrest