On January 20, 2025, the crew of the Shenzhou-19 mission aboard the Tiangong space station successfully conducted an experiment to produce oxygen in space using artificial photosynthesis, according to Chinese media reports.
This marks the first instance of oxygen generation in the cosmos through this method. The experiment was carried out by astronauts Cai Xuzhe, Sun Lindong, and Wang Haoze.
However, experts have noted that the current energy demands of the process render it impractical for long-duration missions to other planets, such as the Moon or Mars.
The Shenzhou-19 spacecraft launched successfully from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in October 2024.