Latest news with #Hebei Province
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
China's lunar lander aces touchdown and takeoff tests ahead of planned 2030 crewed moon mission (video)
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. China's plan to launch astronauts to the moon has taken a major step forward. The country subjected its "Lanyue" two-person lunar lander to a comprehensive landing and takeoff verification test this week at a unique facility in Huailai County, in northern China's Hebei Province. Lanyue, whose name means "embracing the moon," is a crew-carrying lunar descent and ascent vehicle that's being developed for China's first human lunar exploration mission, which is slated to occur before 2030. Key step The test, completed on Aug. 6, represents a key step in the development of China's human lunar exploration program. It marked the first time that China has carried out a trial for the off-Earth landing and takeoff of a crew-carrying spacecraft, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Such testing appraises the performance of the moon lander under different scenarios throughout the landing and takeoff processes. "For instance, during the launch phase, we need to verify its launch payload. So we conducted large-scale mechanical tests to ensure a smooth transition in the extremely complex environment during the launch," Huang Zhen, from the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), told the state-run broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV). CASC is responsible for the development and launch of the rockets and spacecraft for the China Lunar Exploration Program (CLEP). At present, CASC is also advancing follow-on tasks for CLEP. Top priority: safety Lanyue can carry two crew members to the moon's surface and is also equipped to transport a lunar rover and scientific payloads. Safety of astronauts is always the top priority, said Huang. "For example, the lander has multiple engines that are arranged in a redundant configuration to back up each other. In the event of a failure of any single engine, [the remaining engines] can safely bring the astronauts back to the lunar orbit, enabling them to return home on Earth," Huang told CCTV. According to CCTV, during the test, Lanyue's engines were ignited, mimicking the probe's landing on the moon and subsequent takeoff. "The test validated the lander's landing and takeoff system, control plan, lunar contact shutdown procedures, and the compatibility of interfaces between subsystems, including guidance, navigation control (GNC) and propulsion," CCTV reported. RELATED STORIES — How China plans to put astronauts on the moon by 2030 (video) — China names the spacecraft that will put its astronauts on the moon (video) — 'We want to get there first and claim that for America': NASA chief explains push for nuclear reactor on the moon (video) Minimize weight "For our manned space missions, we must ensure that astronauts land on the lunar surface very comfortably and smoothly, which necessitates high standards for the lander's cushioning and landing performance. The lander is equipped with four landing legs, all designed to provide excellent cushioning during landing," Huang told CCTV. "The lander undertakes a multitude of tasks, presenting significant design challenges. Every bit of weight has to play a role in several functions, so we have to achieve [the] ultimate in integrated design and lightweight construction," Huang added. "We have employed every possible method to minimize weight, achieving the most complex and sophisticated design purpose with the least launch weight."
Sustainability Times
11-07-2025
- Business
- Sustainability Times
'These Jaw-Dropping 370,000 Solar Panels Are Transforming Chinese Fishing Forever,' Declares Global Energy Authority as Massive 250 MW Hybrid Farm Shocks Industry
IN A NUTSHELL 🌞 Dajin Heavy Industry has launched a 250 MW fishery-solar hybrid farm in Tangshan, Hebei Province, combining solar energy with aquaculture. has launched a 250 MW fishery-solar hybrid farm in Tangshan, Hebei Province, combining solar energy with aquaculture. 📈 The project uses 370,000 bifacial solar panels to increase energy efficiency by capturing sunlight from both sides. to increase energy efficiency by capturing sunlight from both sides. 🌿 This innovative approach is expected to save 132,000 US tons of standard coal and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 320,000 tons annually. 🔄 The hybrid system not only generates clean electricity but also improves aquaculture by regulating water temperature and reducing evaporation. The integration of renewable energy into existing industries represents a significant step toward a sustainable future. One such innovative project is the fishery-solar hybrid farm in Tangshan, Hebei Province, China. Developed by Dajin Heavy Industry, this project combines a massive solar farm with an aquaculture operation, effectively utilizing land and resources. This pioneering approach not only generates substantial clean energy but also offers a model for efficient land use and environmental conservation. As the world faces increasing energy demands and environmental challenges, such hybrid solutions could become the blueprint for future projects. The Innovative Design of Fishery-Solar Hybrids The Shilihai fishery-solar hybrid project by Dajin Heavy Industry spans an impressive 873 acres. This dual-purpose system uses 370,000 bifacial solar panels strategically placed above fish ponds. These panels are specially designed to capture sunlight from both sides, making them particularly effective over water. The reflective surface of the water enhances the panels' efficiency, allowing them to generate more electricity than traditional systems. This innovative design is expected to produce around 400 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually. In practical terms, this is equivalent to saving about 132,000 US tons of standard coal and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 320,000 tons. Such reductions are crucial for improving air quality and striving toward a net-zero future. Dajin's commitment to innovation showcases their pivotal role in the global energy transition, setting a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide. 'Eco-Friendly Solar Cell Shocks the World': Record-Breaking 16.65% Efficiency Ignites Global Race Toward Clean Energy Domination The Environmental and Economic Benefits Water-based solar farms like the one in Tangshan offer numerous advantages beyond energy production. By providing shade over the water, solar panels help regulate water temperatures, which can improve the metabolism of aquatic life and reduce the likelihood of disease outbreaks in aquaculture. This protective shading also decreases water evaporation, conserving this valuable resource. Furthermore, solar panels mounted over water tend to be more efficient than those on land. The cooling effect of the water can boost their efficiency by up to 15%, according to an Environmental and Energy Study Institute report. This increased efficiency translates to higher energy yields and greater economic returns. By harnessing these dual benefits, fishery-solar hybrids not only address energy needs but also promote sustainable aquaculture practices. World's Largest Solar Telescope Unleashes 5.6-Ton Tech Beast to Capture Unprecedented Images of Massive Sunspot Activity Global Impact and Future Prospects Dajin Heavy Industry is not alone in exploring the potential of fishery-solar hybrids. In 2022, Concord New Energy launched a 70 MW solar plant over a fish pond in Cangzhou, also in Hebei Province. This project demonstrated the viability and benefits of integrating solar energy with aquaculture. Similarly, in Norway, Emilsen Fisk reported a significant reduction in diesel use by implementing a floating solar power plant above its fisheries. The success of these projects indicates a growing trend towards hybrid renewable energy systems. As more companies and countries recognize the potential of combining solar power with other industries, we may see a proliferation of similar projects worldwide. This approach not only addresses energy and environmental challenges but also opens up new avenues for economic development and innovation. World's Most Powerful Flexible Solar Cell: Japan's Stunning Breakthrough Reaches 26.5% Efficiency, Setting Unprecedented Global Performance Standard The Road Ahead for Renewable Energy Integration As the world continues to grapple with the twin challenges of climate change and energy demand, projects like the fishery-solar hybrid in China offer a beacon of hope. By integrating solar power with aquaculture, Dajin Heavy Industry has not only demonstrated the potential for efficient land use but also underlined the importance of innovation in achieving sustainability goals. The success of this project raises important questions about the future of renewable energy integration. How can other industries adopt similar hybrid models to enhance efficiency and sustainability? What role will governments and corporations play in promoting such initiatives? These questions highlight the need for continued exploration and investment in hybrid energy solutions as we strive for a cleaner, more sustainable future. This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (27)
