Chang'e-6's "Black Technology": Breaking Through the "Blackout" and Achieving Full Communication

Tech 2024-09-12 17:18:02 Source: Network

Chang'e-6's "Black Technology": Breaking Through the "Blackout" and Achieving Full CommunicationDuring a spacecraft's return to Earth, can the ground control center lose contact completely for a period of time? This isn't a plot from a science fiction novel, but a real problem the "blackout effect." This effect is a tough nut to crack, as the spacecraft has to endure high temperatures, and astronauts have to fight through the heat alone

Chang'e-6's "Black Technology": Breaking Through the "Blackout" and Achieving Full Communication

Chang

During a spacecraft's return to Earth, can the ground control center lose contact completely for a period of time? This isn't a plot from a science fiction novel, but a real problem the "blackout effect." This effect is a tough nut to crack, as the spacecraft has to endure high temperatures, and astronauts have to fight through the heat alone. However, Chang'e-6 has conquered this problem, and let's take a look at this "black technology" that has made even the US envious.

Chang

When a spacecraft returns to Earth, the ground control center is practically on high alert, watching the screen closely, afraid of missing any detail. You see, a spacecraft returning from space to Earth faces significant risks. A tiny deviation could lead to it going off course or even result in immeasurable losses. Therefore, monitoring by the control center is crucial, with every step from entering the atmosphere to landing successfully needing to be precise to the second.

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However, during the return process, spacecraft encounter a problem that gives everyone a headache the blackout effect. Known as the blackout effect, it occurs when a spacecraft travels at high speeds through the atmosphere, generating immense heat due to friction with the air. The surface temperature of the spacecraft then skyrockets to over 2700 degrees Celsius, and the surrounding gas is burned and ionized, forming a plasma sheath. This layer of plasma acts like a "shield," blocking all electromagnetic waves and causing communication between the spacecraft and the ground to be interrupted. This period of lost communication is nerve-wracking, especially for astronauts, who have to endure a few minutes of "silence" under intense heat, a truly excruciating experience.

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However, on June 25th, China's Chang'e-6 successfully landed in Siziwang Banner, Inner Mongolia, shocking the entire aerospace industry. Why? Because Chang'e-6 managed to maintain communication with the ground during its return, completely overcoming the blackout effect. This is a massive leap forward, and even the US is envious of this achievement.

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So, how did Chang'e-6 break through the blackout? We need to start with the phenomenon of ionization. When a spacecraft travels through the atmosphere at extremely high speeds, the friction generates high temperatures, causing the molecules on the spacecraft's surface and in the surrounding air to ionize, forming plasma. Plasma is not ordinary gas; it absorbs, refracts, reflects, and scatters electromagnetic waves, completely interrupting communication between the spacecraft and the outside world. This plasma sheath is like putting on an "invisibility cloak" for the spacecraft, making it invisible and inaudible to the ground control center.

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During the blackout effect, the temperature on the spacecraft's surface can reach over 2700 degrees Celsius, hotter than the melting point of steel. Astronauts have to remain calm under such high temperatures, quickly taking heat protection measures to prevent the intense heat. Remember, the structure of the return capsule is highly vulnerable to high temperatures, and even a small crack could lead to fatal consequences. Astronauts must wear protective suits and be fully prepared to handle any potential emergencies.

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When discussing the practical impact of the blackout effect, we can't ignore the example of Shenzhou-16. On October 31, 2023, Shenzhou-16 entered the blackout zone while returning to the Dongfeng Landing Field. At that time, the ground control center's screen went silent, with no signals coming back. The controllers could only watch helplessly, silently repeating "target acquired, target acquired" until they heard the astronauts' voices again after a few minutes. That period was like walking on a tightrope, and any slip could have led to disaster.

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To crack the blackout effect, scientists have been working tirelessly. Previous methods predominantly relied on pre-programmed guidance, navigation, and control systems (GNC systems) to enable the spacecraft to automatically break through the blackout. However, this approach has significant limitations, and in case of accidents, the ground control center is helpless.

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Now, scientists have come up with new solutions, such as applying special materials to the spacecraft's surface or modifying the design of the return capsule to mitigate the impact of the blackout effect. Additionally, there's a more advanced approach: improving the communication and measuring equipment of return capsules, using lasers or millimeter waves to penetrate the plasma sheath and restore communication. This way, the ground control center can monitor the spacecraft's status in real-time, significantly enhancing safety.

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The US has been researching the blackout effect for decades, but with limited success. China, however, has made groundbreaking progress in just a few years. This is not merely a technological leap but also a substantial contribution to global aerospace technology. The success of Chang'e-6 has not only secured China's vital position in the international aerospace community but also showcased China's strength and potential to other countries.

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Aerospace technology research is not just about exploring space; it's about benefiting humanity. Many spin-offs of aerospace technology have already become part of our daily lives, such as space-grade diapers, dehydrated vegetables, self-heating rice, composite materials for mobile phone screens, water purifiers, etc. These technologies have not only improved our quality of life but also brought us greater convenience.

The commercial value of the aerospace industry is also undeniable. Data shows that for every $1 invested in aerospace technology, it generates $2 in commercial value and drives $8-14 in related industries. This not only promotes economic growth but also creates job opportunities for more people.

The development of aerospace technology relies on the support and attention of every individual. We hope that more people will learn about and follow the development of aerospace technology, working together to advance human civilization. The journey of space exploration in the future is still long, and each of us is a part of this journey.

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