空间科学学报

2024 Vol. 44, No. 4

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Recent Progress in Space Science and Applications on Chinese Space Station in 2022–2024

GU Yidong, GAO Ming, ZHAO Guangheng, WANG Qiang, LYU Congmin, ZHONG Hongen, LIU Guoning

2024, 44(4): 607-621. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg09

Abstract(558) FullText HTML (215) PDF 11523KB(108)

Abstract:
Chinese Space Station (CSS) has been fully deployed by the end of 2022, and the facility has entered into the application and development phase. It has conducted scientific research projects in various fields, such as space life science and biotechnology, space materials science, microgravity fundamental physics, fluid physics, combustion science, space new technologies, and applications. In this review, we introduce the progress of CSS development and provide an overview of the research conducted in Chinese Space Station and the recent scientific findings in several typical research fields. Such compelling findings mainly concern the rapid solidification of ultra-high temperature alloy melts, dynamics of fluid transport in space, gravity scaling law of boiling heat transfer, vibration fluidization phenomenon of particulate matter, cold atom interferometer technology under high microgravity and related equivalence principle testing, the full life cycle of rice under microgravity and so forth. Furthermore, the planned scientific research and corresponding prospects of Chinese space station in the next few years are presented.

Latest Scientific Results of China’s Lunar and Deep Space Exploration (2022–2024)

XU Lin, LI Lei, LIU Jianzhong, LIN Honglei, LI Yang, LIU Yang, XIE Lianghai, ZHANG Jinhai, QIAO Fuhao, HAN Juanjuan, ZOU Yongliao

2024, 44(4): 622-632. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg10

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Abstract:
China has successfully launched six lunar probes so far. From Chang’E-1 to Chang’E-4, they completed the circling, landing and roving exploration, of which Chang’E-4 was the first landing on the far side of the Moon in human history. Chang’ E-5 was launched in December 2020, bringing back 1731 g of lunar soil samples. Through the detailed analysis of the samples, the scientists understand the history of late lunar volcanism, specifically extending lunar volcanism by about 800 million to 1 billion years, and proposed possible mechanisms. In addition, there are many new understandings of space weathering such as meteorite impacts and solar wind radiation on the Moon. China’s first Mars exploration mission Tianwen-1 was successfully launched in July 2021. Through the study of scientific data, a number of important scientific achievements have been made in the topography, water environment and shallow surface structure of Mars. This paper introduces the main scientific achievements of Chang’E-4, Chang’E-5 and Tianwen-1 in the past two years, excluding technical and engineering contents. Due to the large number of articles involved, this paper only introduces part of the results.

Recent Progresses of the DAMPE Mission

CHANG Jin

2024, 44(4): 633-642. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg11

Abstract(232) FullText HTML (111) PDF 3349KB(32)

Abstract:
The DArk Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE) is a space high-energy particle and γ-ray detector whose major scientific goals are the indirect detection of dark matter particles, the origin of cosmic rays and high-energy γ-ray astronomy. Since its successful launch in December 2015, the DAMPE has been operated smoothly in orbit for more than 8 years. The direct measurements of the boron-to-carbon and boron-to-oxygen flux ratios, and the proton+ Helium spectrum up to 316 TeV have been obtained, revealing new spectral features with very high significances. The search results of γ-ray spectral line and fractionally charged particles indicate a good potential of DAMPE for indirect dark matter detection and new physical discovery in space. The DAMPE measurements are expected to significantly advance our understanding of the fundamental problems in astroparticle physics.

Insight-HXMT Research Progress Since 2023

ZHANG Shu, ZHANG Shuang-Nan

2024, 44(4): 643-667. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg12

Abstract(293) FullText HTML (196) PDF 8404KB(40)

Abstract:
Since the launch in June 2017, Insight-HXMT has been in service smoothly in orbit and particularly productive in 2023 and 2024. Among a total number of 238 papers published so far based on Insight-HXMT data, 63 were published in 2023, and 32 in the early 2024 (till 2024 April), accounting for 40% of the total. These studies cover a variety of scientific subjects including the basic properties of black holes and neutron stars, the outburst of accreting black hole and neutron star X-ray binaries, thermal nuclear burst probes, isolated pulsars, quasi periodical oscillations, cyclotron resonant scattering features, fast radio bursts and gamma-ray bursts, etc. This paper introduces the overall progress with focus on some potential breakthroughs.

Progress of GECAM Observation Research

WANG Chenwei, ZHANG Yanqiu, XIONG Shaolin, LIU Jiacong, TAN Wenjun, XIAO Shuo, XIE Shenglun, XUE Wangchen, ZHAO Haisheng, ZHAO Yi, ZHENG Chao

2024, 44(4): 668-673. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg13

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Abstract:
Gravitational wave high-energy Electromagnetic Counterpart All-sky Monitor (GECAM) is a constellation with four instruments (launch date): GECAM-A/B (10 December 2020), GECAM-C (27 July 2022) and GECAM-D (13 March 2024), which are dedicated to monitoring gamma-ray transients in all-sky. The primary science objectives of GECAM include Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs), Soft Gamma-ray Repeaters (SGRs), high energy counterparts of Gravitation Wave (GW) and Fast Radio Burst (FRB), Solar Flares (SFLs), as well as Terrestrial Gamma-ray Flashes (TGFs) and Terrestrial Electron Beams (TEBs). A series of observations and research have been made since the launch of GECAM-A/B. GECAM observations provide new insights into these high-energy transients, demonstrating the unique role of GECAM in the “multi-wavelength, multi-messenger” era.

Progress of Taiji-2 Project

LUO Ziren, ZHANG Min, WANG Jianyu, WU Yueliang

2024, 44(4): 674-676. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg14

Abstract(238) FullText HTML (147) PDF 1520KB(49)

Abstract:
Taiji-2 project is the second step of Taiji program, which is to verify the required technology for Taiji-3 mission. The feasibility study of Taiji-2 is successfully finished, and some of the main progress is introduced here.

SDGSAT-1: Capabilities for Monitoring and Evaluating SDG Indicators

GUO Huadong, DOU Changyong, LIANG Dong, JIANG Nijun, TANG Yunwei, MA Wenyong

2024, 44(4): 677-686. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg15

Abstract(397) FullText HTML (177) PDF 4299KB(45)

Abstract:
SDGSAT-1, the world's first science satellite dedicated to assisting the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, has been operational for over two and a half years. It provides valuable data to aid in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals internationally. Through its Open Science Program, the satellite has maintained consistent operations and delivered free data to scientific and technological users from 88 countries. This program has produced a wealth of scientific output, with 72 papers, including 28 on data processing methods and 44 on applications for monitoring progress toward SDGs related to sustainable cities, clean energy, life underwater, climate action, and clean water and sanitation. SDGSAT-1 is equipped with three key instruments: a multispectral imager, a thermal infrared spectrometer, and a glimmer imager, which have enabled ground-breaking research in a variety of domains such as water quality analysis, identification of industrial heat sources, assessment of environmental disaster impacts, and detection of forest fires. The precise measurements and ongoing monitoring made possible by this invaluable data significantly advance our understanding of various environmental phenomena. They are essential for making well-informed decisions on a local and global scale. Beyond its application to academic research, SDGSAT-1 promotes global cooperation and strengthens developing countries’ capacity to accomplish their sustainable development goals. As the satellite continues to gather and distribute data, it plays a pivotal role in developing strategies for environmental protection, disaster management and relief, and resource allocation. These initiatives highlight the satellite’s vital role in fostering international collaboration and technical innovation to advance scientific knowledge and promote a sustainable future.

Progress Report on ASO-S: 2022–2024

GAN Weiqun

2024, 44(4): 687-689. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg16

Abstract(197) FullText HTML (77) PDF 1312KB(20)

Abstract:
The Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S) marked China’s first comprehensive solar mission in space. Drawing upon the previous reports covering 2018‒2020 and 2020‒2022, we present here an update on the ASO-S made from 2022 to 2024. In August 2022, ASO-S completed its Phase D study and was successfully launched on October 9, 2022. The commissioning phase was carried out and concluded within the first nine months following the launch. The data and associated analysis software have been opened to the community and the research on the early ASO-S data has been well developed. We anticipate also the achievements in data research pertaining to ASO-S in the near future.

Progress on SVOM Satellite Development

WEI Jianyan

2024, 44(4): 690-691. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg17

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SVOM (Space-based multiband Variable Object Monitor) is a Chinese-French space mission mainly designed to study Gamma-Ray Bursts. The satellite carries four instruments to detect and localize the prompt GRB emission and measure the evolution of the afterglow in the visible band and in soft X-rays, and a VHF communication system enables the fast transmission of SVOM alerts to the ground. The ground segment includes an array of wide-angle cameras and two follow-up telescopes. It was launched into an orbit of about 635 km on 22 June 2024, with three years of nominal operations and an extension of two years.

Recent Progress of the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) Mission

WANG Chi, ESCOUBET Philippe, FORSYTH Colin, LI Jing, AGNOLON David

2024, 44(4): 692-698. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg18

Abstract(256) FullText HTML (120) PDF 3366KB(24)

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The SMILE (Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer) mission is a joint space science mission between the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the European Space Agency (ESA), aiming to understand the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth’s magnetosphere in a global manner. As of May 2024, the SMILE mission is in phase-D with an expected launch date of September 2025. This report summarizes developments in the mission during the past two years.

Strategic Study on the Development of Space Science in China and Proposals for Future Missions

WANG Chi, SONG Tingting, LI Ming, CAO Song

2024, 44(4): 699-703. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg19

Abstract(384) FullText HTML (167) PDF 1253KB(61)

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Since 2011, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has implemented the Strategic Priority Program on Space Science (SPP). A series of scientific satellites have been developed and launched, such as Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE), Quantum Experiments at Space Scale (QUESS), Advanced Space-based Solar Observatory (ASO-S), Einstein Probe (EP), and significant scientific outcomes have been achieved. In order to plan the future space science missions in China, CAS has organized the Chinese space science community to conduct medium and long-term development strategy studies, and summarized the major scientific frontiers of space science as “One Black, Two Dark, Three Origins and Five Characterizations”. Five main scientific themes have been identified for China’s future breakthroughs, including the Extreme Universe, Space-Time Ripples, the Panoramic View of the Sun and Earth, the Habitable Planets, and Biological & Physical Science in Space. Space science satellite missions to be implemented before 2030 are proposed accordingly.

Construction and Research Progress of the Chinese Meridian Project in 2022–2023

WANG Chi, CHEN Zhiqing, XU Jiyao

2024, 44(4): 704-711. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg20

Abstract(290) FullText HTML (148) PDF 4352KB(39)

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The Chinese Meridian Project (CMP) is a major national science and technology infrastructure constructed in two steps. The first phase of the CMP has been operating for more than a solar cycle. From 2022 to 2023, utilizing the monitoring data collected by the CMP, scientists made major breakthroughs in fields of ionosphere, middle and upper atmosphere, and coupling between layers. The construction of the second phase of the CMP is nearly finished, and the project is expected to operate as a whole in 2025 after national acceptance of the second phase. The whole project was built in an architecture of so-called “One Chain, Three Networks and Four Focuses”. It is promising to make a three-dimensional observation of the whole solar-terrestrial space. The science community is looking forward to the great contribution of the CMP to space weather and space physics research.

Progress and Achievements of Fengyun Meteorological Satellite Program since 2022

GUAN Min, WANG Jingsong, ZHAO Xiangang, QIN Danyu, FAN Cunqun, XIAN Di, LIU Chang

2024, 44(4): 712-721. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg21

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Fengyun meteorological satellites have undergone a series of significant developments over the past 50 years. Two generations, four types, and 21 Fengyun satellites have been developed and launched, with 9 currently operational in orbit. The data obtained from Fengyun satellites is employed in a multitude of applications, including weather forecasting, meteorological disaster prevention and reduction, climate change, global environmental monitoring, and space weather. These data products and services are made available to the global community, resulting in tangible social and economic benefits. In 2023, two Fengyun meteorological satellites were successfully launched. This report presents an overview of the two recently launched Fengyun satellites and currently in orbit Fengyun satellites, including an evaluation of their remote sensing instruments since 2022. Additionally, it addresses the subject of Fengyun satellite data archiving, data services, application services, international cooperation, and supporting activities. Furthermore, the development prospects have been outlined.

Networking Observation and Applications of Chinese Ocean Satellites

ZOU Bin, LIU Yuxin

2024, 44(4): 722-730. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg22

Abstract(233) FullText HTML (101) PDF 4145KB(22)

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This paper presents the networking observation capabilities of Chinese ocean satellites and their diverse applications in ocean disaster prevention, ecological monitoring, and resource development. Since the inaugural launch in 2002, China has achieved substantial advancements in ocean satellite technology, forming an observation system composed of the HY-1, HY-2, and HY-3 series satellites. These satellites are integral to global ocean environmental monitoring due to their high resolution, extensive coverage, and frequent observations. Looking forward, China aims to further enhance and expand its ocean satellite capabilities through ongoing projects to support global environmental protection and sustainable development.

Recent Progress of Earth Observation Satellites in China

HUANG Shusong, QI Wenping, ZHANG Shuai, XIA Tian, WANG Jingqiao, ZENG Yong

2024, 44(4): 731-740. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg23

Abstract(257) FullText HTML (117) PDF 3195KB(26)

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Currently, China has 32 Earth observation satellites in orbit. The satellites can provide various data such as optical, multispectral, infrared, and radar. The spatial resolution of China Earth observation satellites ranges from low to medium to high. The satellites possess the capability to observe across multiple spectral bands, under all weather conditions, and at all times. The data of China Earth observation satellites has been widely used in fields such as natural resource detection, environmental monitoring and protection, disaster prevention and reduction, urban planning and mapping, agricultural and forestry surveys, land survey and geological prospecting, and ocean forecasting, achieving huge social benefits. This article introduces the recent progress of Earth observation satellites in China since 2022, especially the satellite operation, data archiving, data distribution and data coverage.

Progress of International Meridian Circle Program

WANG Chi, BLANC Michel, ZHANG Shunrong, DENARDINI Clezio Marcos, LIU William, SHEN Xuhui, WU Jian, XU Jiyao, LI Hui, ZHANG Qinghe, REN Liwen, ZHU Yajun, LI Guozhu, DING Zonghua, LIU Zhengkuan, YANG Fang

2024, 44(4): 741-745. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg24

Abstract(277) FullText HTML (136) PDF 3500KB(26)

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In 2024, the Chinese Meridian Project (CMP) completed its construction, deploying 282 instruments across 31 stations. This achievement not only provides a robust foundation but also serves as a reference template for the International Meridian Circle Program (IMCP). The IMCP aims to integrate and establish a comprehensive network of ground-based monitoring stations designed to track the propagation of space weather events from the Sun to Earth. Additionally, it monitors various disturbances generated within the Earth system that impact geospace. Over the past two years, significant progress has been made on the IMCP. In particular, the second phase of construction for the China-Brazil Joint Laboratory for Space Weather has been completed, and the North Pole and Southeast Asia networks are under active construction. The 2024 IMCP joint observation campaign was successfully conducted. To facilitate these developments, the scientific program committee of IMCP was established, following the success of 2023 IMCP workshop and the space weather school, which was co-hosted with the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO) and sponsored by Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and Scientific Committee on Solar-Terrestrial Physics (SCOSTEP). Preparations are now underway for the 2024 workshop in collaboration with the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) in Brazil.

Progress of Radiation Belt Exploration by a Constellation of Small Satellites TGCSS/SGRB, COSPAR

WU Ji, YANG Xiaochao, DAI Lei, DENG Li

2024, 44(4): 746-750. doi: 10.11728/cjss2024.04.2024-yg25

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A COnstellation of Radiation BElt Survey (CORBES) program is proposed by the Sub-Group on Radiation Belt (SGRB) of TGCSS, COSPAR. To address the open qustions about the dynamics of the Earth’s radiation belt, CORBES mission would use a constellation of small/CubeSats to take an ultra-fast survey of the Earth’s radiation belt. The concept, science objectives and preliminary technical design of CORBES are introduced. This mission is an international multilateral cooperation mission coordinated by COSPAR. The SGRB Science Activities and COSPAR HQs Coordinate Activities on CORBES are summaried.