SPACE STATION PROVIDING UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT FOR RESEARCH FIRSTS

China has equipped Tiangong to seek multiple scientific, medical, other breakthroughs

With microgravity and cosmic radiation, the unique environment in space poses risks to human health and also vast opportunities for medical and scientific research breakthroughs, experts said.

This issue was highlighted recently when two NASA astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station for nine months appeared haggard and thin upon their return to Earth.

Human activities such as movement and sleep are affected by such a lengthy period in space. The potential health issues astronauts face are ongoing challenges for long-term manned space missions that are being addressed by Chinese experts.