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Scientists at the University of Science and Technology of China have created a lightweight, rechargeable space battery that can function as a fuel cell in the atmosphere of Mars.

Published 09/10/2024 às 13:25
Photo: Reproduction

A new space battery developed by Chinese scientists can operate in the atmosphere of Mars and withstand extreme temperatures

Scientists University of Science and Technology of China announced the development of a space battery innovative battery for Mars exploration. This battery, in addition to being lightweight and rechargeable, can use the Martian atmosphere as a source of energy the energy, withstanding the extreme temperature variations of the red planet.

This technology represents a significant advance in space exploration missions, where efficient use of local resources is crucial to long-term success.

An innovation for space missions

battery, mars

According to researchers, the space battery can perform the “direct inhalation of Mars' atmosphere as fuel” during its discharge process. In addition, it can be recharged using external energy sources, such as solar and nuclear.

This capability allows the device to operate for long periods, even in challenging conditions. According to the study published in the journal Science Bulletin, the battery was able to operate for more than 1.350 hours – approximately two Martian months – at a temperature of 0°C.

Mars is known for its extreme temperatures, with variations of up to 60 degrees between day and night. To deal with these conditions, the space battery It is designed to withstand large thermal fluctuations, making it a viable solution for extended missions to extraterrestrial surfaces.

Using local resources to generate energy

One of the most notable features of this new technology is the way it generates power. The battery works in a similar way to a fuel cell, converting chemical reactions into electricity.

According to Xiao Xu, one of the authors of the study, the device uses gases from the Martian atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, oxygen and carbon monoxide, as “fuel“This process eliminates the need to transport large amounts of fuel to Mars, which represents a significant reduction in mission weight and costs.

Just like hydrogen and oxygen fuel cells, which use these elements to generate energy, the Martian battery takes advantage of the resources available on the planet itself, producing electricity directly through chemical or electrochemical reactions. This way, missions can rely on a local and sustainable energy source.

Advantages over current technologies

Currently, Mars missions rely primarily on portable lithium-ion batteries, as well as large solar panels and nuclear batteries to power rovers and other exploration equipment.

However, dust build-up on solar panels, as occurred with the Chinese rover Zhurong, can limit the amount of light received, reducing the efficiency of the power system. The new battery proposed by Chinese researchers could offer a solution to this problem, as it does not rely exclusively on solar panels.

While the new battery is not intended to replace existing energy sources such as nuclear or solar batteries, it represents an important addition to the energy supply system.

The combination of multiple sources, such as solar, nuclear and the developed battery, can ensure more efficient and long-lasting exploration on Mars.

Next steps in battery development

The study, which is a proof of concept, is still in the development phase. Scientists hope to improve solid-state battery technology by addressing issues such as electrolyte volatilization at low pressures and thermal and barometric management.

This could ensure that future Martian batteries are even more effective and reliable, allowing long-duration missions to be carried out more safely and efficiently.

This new approach to harnessing Mars’ native resources opens up new possibilities for space exploration, bringing a more sustainable and self-sufficient vision to the future of interplanetary missions.

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Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide range of topics, such as technology, politics, shipbuilding, geopolitics, renewable energy and economics. I have been working since 2015 with prominent publications in major news portals. My degree in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10 thousand articles published in renowned media outlets, I always seek to bring detailed information and relevant insights to the reader. For story suggestions or any questions, please contact me by email at flclucas@hotmail.com.

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