China has officially announced the launch of the world’s largest space station, the Space Environment Simulation and Research Infrastructure (Sesri). Located in Harbin, China, the station is the size of 50 football fields and is designed to simulate various cosmic conditions, as reported by South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The construction of the Sesri station is part of China’s ambitious space program, with the goal of becoming one of the leading space powers by the end of the decade and a powerful cosmic force by 2045. The station will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of astronauts by conducting in-depth studies of the challenging conditions of space.
Approved in 2015, Sesri was built in collaboration between the Harbin Technological Institute and the Corporation of the Scientific and Technological Aerospace industry of China. The station consists of four main laboratories specializing in various aspects of space technology, such as space environment, plasma sciences, magnetic conditions, and animal breeding.
After undergoing preliminary operational testing last year, Sesri has now successfully passed the national acceptance review. Researchers will be able to set their own parameters for experiments based on scientific and engineering requirements. Over 110 universities and institutions from more than 30 countries have signed agreements to utilize the station for research purposes.
Aside from supporting space exploration, Sesri will also facilitate experiments in agrarian selection, life sciences, and the development of electronic devices for aerospace use. This advancement marks a significant step towards humanity’s future in space travel, potential colonization of other planets, and a better understanding of phenomena like gravitational waves.