The Chinese have obtained oxygen and rocket fuel in space using artificial photosynthesis

In January 2025, at the Chinese space station Tiangun, one of the stages of the experiment on an artificial photosynthesis was completed, which allows the components of rocket fuel and oxygen for breathing in space. It is argued that this process requires much less energy than classic electrolysis. At the ISS, up to 30 % of the generated energy is consumed from water to produce oxygen from water, while Chinese technology promises higher efficiency.

Chinese space station “Tiangun”. Image source: China Manned Space Agency

Technologies for obtaining oxygen and components of fuel from water are of paramount importance for the development of the moon and expeditions to Mars. The production of air for the breathing of the crew and fuel for missiles and mechanisms on the spot requires incomparably lower costs than the delivery of these resources from the Earth. China began experiments in this direction in 2015, hoping to apply technology at the future lunar station, the construction of which is planned by 2035.

The recent experiment on the artificial photosynthesis conducted at the station was based on the use of a semiconductor catalyst and a special mechanism. As a result, ethylene and oxygen were obtained from water and carbon dioxide. With the use of various catalysts in a similar reaction, methane andntic acid can be synthesized. The latter can serve as a precursor for the production of sugar, preservatives, as well as used as an antibacterial agent.

«This technology imitates the natural process of green plant photosynthesis using engineering physical and chemical methods, using carbon dioxide resources in closed spaces or extraterrestrial atmospheres for the production of oxygen and carbon -based fuel, ”the Chinese state television channel CCTV said. “It is expected that the work will provide critical technical support for human survival and space research.”