The Shenzhou-20 crew aboard China's Tiangong space station, conducted over 10 scientific experiments and tests last week, according to the China Manned Space Agency.
Since entering the Tiangong space station on April 25, the three astronauts have completed a series of tasks in orbit.
During the past week, they successfully carried out the collection and processing of blood samples, a crucial step towards understanding the changes in astronauts' skeletal and nervous systems during long-duration space mission.
Utilizing fine motor measurement devices, the crew undertook memory slide tests, with the test results expected to provide valuable insights into the changes in astronauts' fine motor control and adaptive learning mechanisms.
Moreover, a study on the kinematic characteristics of astronauts in orbit was conducted. This study, focusing on observing astronauts' movements and operations within the space station, aims to offer valuable data support for ergonomics design and assessment, as well as the optimization of on-orbit task planning.
The crew also completed the collection and preservation of samples from a small aquatic ecosystem experiment unit. These samples will be significant in elucidating the regulatory role of protein homeostasis on the bone loss and cardiovascular dysfunction induced by weightlessness.
Additionally, the crew replaced the sampling cover of the experimental plugin in the combustion experiment cabinet and conducted maintenance on the containerless experiment cabinet, which included cleaning the experimental chamber, replacing samples, and ensuring the proper functioning of its axis mechanism.
They also replaced liquid bags in the fluids physics experiment cabinet to study the thermocapillary migration of droplets in microgravity condition.
Moreover, examination of the space radiation biology exposure device was finished inside the cabin.
Shenzhou-20 crew completes over 10 experiments, tests in space over past week
Shenzhou-20 crew completes over 10 experiments, tests in space over past week
Shenzhou-20 crew completes over 10 experiments, tests in space over past week
The 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the Ninth Special Olympic Games will conclude on Monday, with a full-dress rehearsal for the closing ceremony held Saturday night at Shenzhen Sports Center.
Lasting approximately 45 minutes, the rehearsal seamlessly integrated artistic performances with core ceremonial elements, including the entrance of sports delegations, flag reception, flag raising, and the singing of national anthem.
The ceremony aims to highlight themes of inclusion and unity, underlining the spirit of perseverance, solidarity, and determination. Messages of harmony between disabled and non-disabled individuals, shared values across the Greater Bay Area, and collective progress were central to the evening's presentation.
A total of 600 performers are participating in the closing ceremony, including about 130 persons with disabilities. Organizers worked to ensure a supportive environment by pairing each visually impaired performer with a non-disabled guide to assist during rehearsals and performances.
Behind the scenes, thoughtful design turns inclusiveness into action. Though visitors will see a simple, elegant stage, hidden modifications make it fully accessible. Traditional stairs have been replaced with ramps on both sides of the stage to accommodate wheelchair users and all performers, and anti-slip carpets have been laid throughout to ensure safety, especially for performers with mobility challenges.
Technical teams are also fine-tuning every detail, including stage visuals and lighting effects.
A total of 7,824 athletes from 34 delegations registered for this year's Games, held for the first time jointly across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao in the Greater Bay Area. The competition includes 1,876 events in 46 sports, with six winter sports already concluded. Highlights also include 131 events in 11 mass-participation sports and 599 events in nine Special Olympics sports.
Under the slogan "Passionate National Games, Vibrant Greater Bay Area," the Games are also being used to promote innovation in assistive technologies. A range of advanced products will be put into use during competition, helping move technologies from laboratories into real-world testing and market application.
Full-dress rehearsal for National Para Games' closing ceremony held in Shenzhen
