The effective development and utilization of gases on Mars is emerging as a crucial breakthrough driving the construction of next-generation deep space energy systems, according to Chinese experts.
Some experts pointed out that in the future, leveraging gases on Mars for energy and resource utilization, including power generation, energy storage, heating, oxygen production, and fuel production, could enable the development of an integrated energy system utilizing the atmospheric environment of Mars.
For example, the average temperature on the surface of Mars is approximately minus 63 degrees Celsius. The waste heat from the low-temperature range of a power generation system could address the thermal energy supply at research stations on Mars.
Additionally, the mid-temperature and high-temperature ranges of Martian gases can respectively serve as reaction gases for methane production and high-temperature electrolysis for oxygen production. This process transforms the abundant carbon and oxygen atoms in Martian gases into valuable resources such as oxygen and methane fuel essential for exploration missions.
"To conduct research on Mars, we need a multitude of detection equipment, and research stations to be set up. These research stations and detection equipment rely on energy as a fundamental guarantee. When considering setting up an energy system on Mars, we need to devise solutions in line with local conditions. This research marks a new starting point. It can be said that there is still a long way to go," said Shi Lingfeng, a researcher at the University of Science and Technology of China.
Exploration of Martian atmosphere to drive construction of deep space energy systems: Chinese experts
Exploration of Martian atmosphere to drive construction of deep space energy systems: Chinese experts
Shenzhen in south China's Guangdong Province saw a soaring number of visitors from abroad on Thursday, the first day of 2026 and also the opening day of China's three-day New Year holiday, as festive celebrations unfolded across the city.
Major border checkpoints in the city recorded peak inbound passenger flows, with large numbers of travelers from Hong Kong, Macao and overseas entering the city to experience its vibrant holiday vibes.
"I'm so happy 'cause this is the first day of 2026, and I'm bringing my friends to visit Shenzhen," said a visitor from Hong Kong.
International tourists also shared their excitement.
"It's a very modern city and it's interesting to see such a New Year Eve in such a city," said an overseas visitor.
The inbound passenger flow at Luohu Port peaked from 8:00 to 20:00 on Thursday, said an officer there, adding the average daily passenger flow during the New Year break is expected to reach about 240,000.
At the West Kowloon Station port, eye-catching red decorations themed around the upcoming 2026 Spring Festival which will mark the beginning of the Year of the Horse added to the festive mood.
As a key transportation hub of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, the port also saw heavy two-way passenger traffic. Daily cross-border passenger flow there is expected to average around 100,000 during the holiday.
An Australian tourist said he was looking forward to his trip to south China.
"I am from Melbourne, Australia and I'm coming to Guangzhou and Shenzhen in China. I'm excited to see all the tall buildings, especially all the ones that light up and experience a new culture in China." said a tourist.
Outside the ports, celebrations were in full swing as the city prepared for rising visitor numbers.
A large-scale parade featuring more than 30 themed formations kicked off in the morning along the 1.6-kilometer Festival Avenue in Shenzhen's Futian District.
The event drew huge crowds with inflatable cartoon characters, lively drum performances, and traditional Yingge Dance -- a form of folk dance popular in south China's Guangdong Province that merges opera, dance, and martial arts.
Nearby commercial zones also rolled out special consumption coupons, allowing visitors to enjoy a one-stop experience combining festive celebrations and shopping.
"The atmosphere is really nice. We feel very welcomed here. It's a very, very international vibe", said an international visitor.
China continues to grow in popularity as a destination for overseas travelers. Data from online tourism platforms show that inbound flight bookings to China rose 20 percent year on year on the first day of the holiday, with Shenzhen ranking fifth among the country's most popular inbound travel destinations.
"On the first day of holiday, international flight ticket purchases to Shenzhen has increased by 52.5 percent while the international flight bookings to the city has grown by 33 percent," said Shi Ke, a researcher from big data research institute of Qunar, an online travel service provider.
Shenzhen embraces influx of visitors on first day of 2026
