Shenzhou-23 crew carry out research in biology, microgravity, equipment maintenance

The Shenzhou-23 spaceflight mission's three-member crew has stayed at China's space station for five weeks, carrying out a series of scientific experiments in orbit.

According to the video footages released by China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) on Sunday, mission commander Zhu Yangzhu and fellow astronauts Zhang Zhiyuan and Lai Ka-ying conducted experiments on microbiota and nutrient metabolism using a space Raman spectrometer. By detecting metabolic components in urine samples, the experiments aim to study changes in gut microbiota under long-term flight conditions and their impact on nutrient metabolism.

The mission crew used relevant equipment and experimental software to conduct force control tests, and the data obtained will be used to study the changing patterns and adaptive learning mechanisms of astronauts' fine motor control during long-term orbital flights.

The crew also conducted several in-orbit electroencephalogram (EEG) tests, and the results will help elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying changes in astronauts' cognitive abilities during long-duration spaceflight.

In the field of space microgravity physics, the crew replaced the internal burner of the gas experiment module in the combustion science experimental cabinet, replaced the experimental samples in the online maintenance and adjustment control cabinet, and completed tasks such as cleaning the sample in the containerless cabinet experimental chamber, maintaining the electrodes of the central mechanism, and cleaning and replacing the viewing window cover lens.

In addition to scientific research, the trio inspected and maintained the space station's life support system, adjusted the sleeping areas, and continued daily exercise to help reduce bone and muscle loss caused by prolonged exposure to microgravity.

Shenzhou-23 crew carry out research in biology, microgravity, equipment maintenance

China has logged the carbon footprint of every passenger car model on the market, creating a unified emissions record that strengthens the auto industry's low-carbon transition and export credentials, according to official data.

China's Automotive Industry Carbon Footprint Publicity Platform (CPP) collected carbon footprint data on over 12,100 vehicle models from 92 passenger car manufacturers nationwide as of the end of July 2026, covering all domestically produced passenger cars and mainstream imported models, according to the latest figures released by the platform.

Experts say this signals a new phase for China's automotive carbon data management system, which is becoming more comprehensive and systematic.

The country's automotive industry once faced challenges in low-carbon management, including inconsistent standards, fragmented data, and incomplete traceability.

The CPP platform has now established a carbon data chain spanning from upstream raw materials to the vehicle use stage, systematically driving carbon reduction across the entire industrial chain.

"Overseas markets are increasingly demanding detailed carbon traceability and accounting for products. The CPP platform has built a cross-border carbon footprint mutual recognition system, and has become a core platform for mutual recognition of life cycle assessment rules and standards between Chinese and foreign automotive industries," said Zhao Dongchang, a chief expert at the China Automotive Technology and Research Center Co., Ltd. (CATARC).

The platform's data resources are expected to support the establishment of standardized, benchmarkable, and assessable low-carbon development metrics, serving as a "green passport" for Chinese vehicles going global.

China covers carbon footprint data for all domestic passenger car models: data