The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has released new footage showcasing the Shenzhou-18 crew conducting a series of strength and muscle adaptation experiments aboard the China Space Station.
The three taikonauts, Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu, are participating in groundbreaking tests to measure how microgravity affects human strength and physiology during extended space missions.
Among the experiments, the astronauts performed two-arm and single-arm push and pull exercises, as well as rotational strength assessments. These activities aim to understand how an astronaut’s operational strength changes in space compared to Earth, providing critical data for future long-duration missions.
“Understanding the impacts of microgravity on the human body is essential for the success of long-term space exploration,” a CMSA spokesperson commented. “The data collected by the Shenzhou-18 crew will offer valuable insights into maintaining astronaut health and performance.”
In addition to strength assessments, the crew is engaged in studies on muscle adaptation. Utilizing specialized equipment such as bicycles, treadmills, and resistance trainers, the taikonauts are undergoing tests that measure Achilles tendon stiffness, lower limb movement patterns, and foot pressure distribution.
This comprehensive data collection aims to develop predictive models on how exercise can counteract muscle loss—a common challenge faced by astronauts during prolonged periods in space. Such models are crucial for designing effective countermeasures to preserve muscle mass and function in future missions.
Launched in April, the Shenzhou-18 mission is a six-month endeavor during which the crew is scheduled to perform over 90 experiments across various scientific disciplines, including space material science, life science, and technology. These experiments are expected to contribute significantly to our understanding of living and working in space.
The CMSA continues to share updates on the mission, highlighting China’s expanding role in space exploration and international scientific collaboration.
Reference(s):
Shenzhou-18: Chinese astronauts test strength and muscle in space
cgtn.com
