China has sent artificial embryos to its space station to investigate the feasibility of human reproduction in microgravity. This research aims to understand the effects of space environments on early development for future off-world settlements.

China has sent artificial embryos to its space station to study whether humans could reproduce in zero gravity. The experiment was reported on Tuesday by state broadcaster CCTV. Project leader Yu Leqian said the main goal was to study the impact of gravity – and its absence – on early development, in preparation for eventual human settlement off Earth. Once the impact of the force on embryos was understood, scientists could develop interventions to control its effect, he told CCTV. Yu is a...