Shenzhou-19 Crew Prepares for Earth Return After Successful Experimental Missions

The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) has announced that the Shenzhou-19 crew will return to Earth around May 1. During their final days on the China Space Station, the astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Song Lingdong, and Wang Haoze have been diligently working on various scientific experiments and technical tests. Recently, they conducted multiple tests utilizing brainwave monitoring equipment to gather data that ground researchers will analyze.

The gathered information aims to explore how gravity affects visual-motor processing, uncover cerebral patterns, and investigate how music that influences brainwaves may help manage cognitive functions during extended spaceflights. Over the past six months, the crew has also collected information regarding the station’s habitability through surveys and video clips, enabling researchers to assess and enhance the station’s design and human experience.

In addition to their cognitive studies, the crew conducted pharmacokinetic research important for future space medical protocols. They worked on the assembly and testing of advanced refrigeration technology that could play a key role in future missions aimed at deep-space exploration by evaluating high-speed dynamic pressure gas-lubricated bearings for large-scale refrigeration.

As scheduled, they also facilitated various microgravity physical science experiments, performing tasks such as sample swaps in equipment designated for fluid physics and high-temperature materials. Furthermore, they were responsible for environmental assessments, including measuring air speed, temperature, and air quality, along with routine maintenance checks on equipment.

Lastly, the crew underwent thorough medical evaluations including heart assessments and exercise tests while employing measures to counteract weightlessness. Looking ahead, the Tiangong space station is poised to receive additional crews with upcoming missions namely Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21, alongside the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft, for which selected taikonauts are currently in training.