China has created an artificial moon (Artificial Low-Gravity Research Facility). In this, gravity can be controlled by scientists using powerful magnets. According to the South China Morning Post, gravity at this location can be done at such a low level that it can successfully simulate the gravity of the Moon. This research facility can control gravity inside a vacuum chamber, which is 60 cm in diameter and ‘disappears’ the gravitational pull of the Earth in it.
The Moon has one-sixth of Earth’s gravity. China is developing the ability to control the Earth despite the presence of its universal gravitational pull. This is a significant achievement that could help scientists in future lunar missions. However, due to the small size of the chamber, it cannot be used to train astronauts. Currently, NASA trains astronauts in microgravity conditions in high-altitude parabolic flights.
Li Ruilin, a geotechnical engineer working at the China University of Mining and Technology, told the South China Morning Post that the newly built research facility in China can maintain low-gravity conditions “as long as you want”. According to Ruilin, this research facility, which fully simulates the lunar surface, will be completely filled with rocks and dust. An experiment that Ruilin believes is ‘the first of its kind in the world’.
According to scientists, research facilities have been created to enhance China’s ongoing lunar exploration program. It can be used to conduct extensive testing of technologies that scientists are planning to send to the Moon. This will help scientists detect technical vulnerabilities inexpensive equipment and test the durability of the equipment. Also, they will be able to use them in simulated lunar environments before the deployment of real missions to the Moon.
