welcome
Live Science

Live Science

Science

Science

Chinese astronauts make rocket fuel and oxygen in space using 1st-of-its kind 'artificial photosynthesis

Live Science
Summary
Nutrition label

72% Informative

Chinese astronauts have created rocket fuel and oxygen in space using a new type of "artificial photosynthesis" The breakthrough technology could one day be put to use on China 's proposed moon base .

It converts carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and rocket fuel ingredients using a simple "drawer-like" apparatus and a "semiconductor catalyst" It is a similar reaction to photosynthesis in plants, which produces glucose instead of rocket fuel.