China Scientists Develop Space Battery That Can Run on Mars’ Atmosphere: Paper

Source: South China Morning Post

Researchers at the University of Science and Technology of China have unveiled a lightweight, rechargeable battery designed specifically for Mars exploration. This innovative battery can:

• Utilize Mars’ Atmosphere: Capable of direct inhalation of Martian gases as a fuel source during discharge.
• Withstand Extreme Temperatures: Engineered to perform optimally amidst Mars’ drastic temperature shifts, which can vary as much as 60 degrees Celsius.
• Long Operational Duration: Expected to run for over 1,350 hours (nearly two Martian months) at zero degrees Celsius.

The findings, published in the peer-reviewed Science Bulletin, suggest the battery can also be charged using external solar and nuclear energy sources. Study author Xiao Xu emphasized the battery's design mirrors that of a fuel cell, converting chemical reactions into electricity.

This advancement aims to enhance space exploration technology and move beyond conventional lithium-ion batteries, which have been the standard since the 1997 Soil rover to the recent 2021 Zhurong rover.

For further insights, please visit the full article at the South China Morning Post.