With the successful launch of the Mengtian experimental module and the successful completion of rendezvous, docking and transposition, the "T" basic configuration of the Chinese space station has been assembled in orbit. At present, eight science experiment cabinets in the Mengtian experimental cabin have been powered on, and the on orbit test is about to begin.
Among the eight science experiment cabinets loaded in the Mengtian experimental module, the high-precision time-frequency science experiment system occupies two seats, and is supported by three ground systems in Xi'an, Beijing and Shanghai. At the National Time Service Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, researchers are inspecting ground stations to prepare for the upcoming in orbit test.
Zhang Shougang, Director of the National Time Service Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences: We have made a detailed on orbit test plan, which takes about one year. The first stage is to confirm its status and optimize its parameters, which takes about 180 days; In the remaining 180 days, it is necessary to test and evaluate the performance of the space borne equipment, including the atomic clock. After completing these actions, it will enter the normal operation state and carry out relevant basic research and engineering applications.
High precision time-frequency experiment cabinet has created many world firsts
It is reported that the high-precision time-frequency experimental cabinet is the most complex experimental cabinet in the space station, consisting of 13 single machines, including the world's first space optical clock, the world's first space ultra narrow linewidth laser, the world's first low orbit spacecraft space time frequency comparison system with microwave and laser dual links, etc. After the formal operation of the high-precision time-frequency experimental cabinet, it will become the world's leading space time frequency generation and operation system, providing a research platform for related precision measurement physics and high-precision time-frequency signals for related engineering technology applications.
Zhang Shougang, Director of the National Time Service Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences: For example, support the time synchronization of some major scientific and technological infrastructure on the ground and improve their performance, including improving the performance of the Beidou satellite navigation system. We expect to produce some basic physics research results with international influence, and support the construction of our national "space space earth" interchange national time service system.
(Shuai Junquan, a reporter from CCTV, Ren Meimei, Li Dajie and Guo Sheng)
