China sets record for longest stay in self-contained moon lab

Liu Hong, chief designer of Yuegong-1, said the test marked the longest stay in a bioregenerative life support system (BLSS), in which humans, animals, plants and microorganisms co-exist in a closed environment, simulating a lunar base. Oxygen, water and food are recycled within the BLSS, creating an Earth-like environment.

"The system is 98 percent self-sufficient. It has been stable and effective in providing life support for its passengers," she said.

A total of eight volunteers, students at Beihang University, took turns living in the cabin, which measures around 150 square meters.