The space launch was a success! At 15:37 on 31 October, the Long March 5B Remote 4 Launch Vehicle took off from the Wenchang Space Launch Complex in China, carrying the Mengtian Experiment Module. Approximately eight minutes later, the MEMT separated from the rocket and entered the planned orbit. The mission was completed perfectly. Two out of the eight experimental cabinets currently in orbit with the Mengtian capsule serve the purpose of fluid science research - specifically, the fluid physics experimental cabinet and the two-phase system experimental cabinet. Our Institute has undertaken responsibility for the scientific experiment systems in both of these experimental cabinets.
The Fluid Physics Experiment Cabinet includes 10 sets of large-scale fluid dynamics test systems, which use modern technologies such as digital holographic interference, infrared thermal imaging, and laser Doppler velocimetry. Additionally, this cabinet comes equipped with high-precision surface deformation measuring technology. It is also configured with 4 sets of small-scale complex fluid test systems, such as microscopic observation, rheometers, kinetic/static light scatterers, and spectrometers. The device is suitable for a variety of fluid systems, including dynamic processes, diffusion processes, colloidal phases, and other fluid dynamics and diffusion processes. It can also conduct microgravity experiments on the dynamics and diffusion processes of various fluid systems, as well as colloidal phase transitions and self-organising behaviour. The experimental cabinet for the two-phase system has created a liquid/gas supply and recycling system with a wide temperature range. The system can be replaced and has multiple flows, which allows for coordinated observation at many stations and with multiple parameters. The experimental research supported by the system includes two-phase flow and phase change heat transfer in space science and applied technology. The system serves as the first large-scale space experimental platform dedicated to the study of two-phase systems in the international arena. The two fluid experiment platforms are better than the three fluid experiment cabinets on the International Space Station. They will enhance China's microgravity fluid physics research.
The Fluid Physics and Two-Phase System Experiment Cabinets are crucial tasks in the third step of the manned spaceflight project. They reflect the vital role of the Institute of Mechanics in meeting the country's strategic needs. These cabinets have undergone almost a decade of challenging work, from the start of the project to the finish. The scientists at the Key Laboratory of Microgravity follow President Qian Xuesen's idea of engineering science. They embody the spirit of manned spaceflight - being especially capable of handling difficulties, fighting, solving problems and showing dedication. They work hard to complete the construction task of the experimental module of Mengtian on time, take responsibility and congratulate the Party on the successful conclusion of the Twentieth National Congress of the People's Congress.
