Shenzhou-19 crew tests space robot, fruit flies

Chinese astronauts aboard the Shenzhou-19 spacecraft have achieved significant milestones in their ongoing space station mission, conducting groundbreaking experiments with China's first space station intelligent flight robot, "Xiao Hang." The crew performed extensive testing of human-robot interactions, focusing on spatial relationships and multimodal interaction technologies to improve mission efficiency.

A notable achievement in space life sciences includes progress in studying fruit flies under sub-magnetic conditions, with the possibility of achieving three generations of fruit flies aboard the space station - a first for China's space program. The astronauts meticulously managed fruit fly cultures and collected samples for research.

The mission included comprehensive human research, with astronauts participating in detailed movement measurements focusing on fine motor adaptation, force control, and object weight perception in microgravity. They also underwent tests to evaluate emotional states and emergency decision-making abilities during long-term spaceflight.

In technological applications, the crew installed the fourth batch of microbial sampling module test samples, advancing research on space microbial control. These findings are already influencing spacecraft design and material selection, particularly in evaluating antimicrobial properties under space conditions.

The astronauts maintained their focus on microgravity physical sciences, performing routine tasks in fluid physics and high-temperature materials research, including cleaning experimental chambers and maintaining equipment. They also conducted regular maintenance of life-support systems and monitored the station's acoustic environment.

The Shenzhou-19 mission continues to advance scientific research and technological development, contributing valuable data to human space exploration while maintaining the crew's health and safety in the space environment.