“太空蝴蝶”破蛹展翅，太空生命生存试验翻新篇

Core Viewpoint - The successful launch and operation of the "Shennong Kaiwu 2" small space ecological system experiment by Chongqing University marks a significant advancement in understanding life sustainability in extreme space environments, particularly through the successful metamorphosis of a butterfly in microgravity conditions [3][8][9]. Group 1: Experiment Overview - The "Shennong Kaiwu 2" payload was launched on December 13, 2025, aboard the "Dier 5" space experiment device, successfully entering low Earth orbit and commencing its in-orbit testing [3]. - The experiment demonstrated stable technical indicators such as pressure and temperature within the sealed cabin, and notably, a butterfly successfully hatched and flew in microgravity [3][8]. Group 2: Technological Innovations - The experiment utilized a small cargo spacecraft developed by Ziwei Technology, capable of carrying over 300 kilograms and featuring a cargo space of 1.8 cubic meters, which allows for the management of over 100 payloads in orbit [5]. - The design of the "Shennong Kaiwu 2" payload adopted a low-cost commercial development model, with over 90% of components being industrial-grade, significantly reducing development and launch costs [5]. Group 3: Ecological System Design - The "Shennong Kaiwu 2" serves as a controlled ecological life support system (CELSS) with a total mass of only 8.3 kg and an internal usable space of 14.2 liters, constructed from magnesium alloy to withstand extreme conditions [7]. - The system incorporates a three-chain material circulation model involving plants (producers), butterflies (consumers), and microorganisms (decomposers), effectively maintaining gas composition stability within the sealed cabin [7]. Group 4: Research Implications - The successful hatching of the butterfly represents a significant milestone in the study of complex life support systems, advancing the understanding of the dynamic relationships between animals, plants, and microorganisms in space [8][9]. - Future research will focus on verifying the long-term operational capabilities of the ecological system, including structural durability, component adaptability to space conditions, and the sealed cabin's integrity [9].