China has retrieved the first batch of experimental "lunar soil bricks" brought back by the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft after spending a full year exposed to radiation and extreme temperature swings outside the space station. Researchers confirmed that all 34 samples remained in good condition, retaining high strength and stability. The bricks – made from simulated lunar regolith – were formed through three different techniques: hot pressing, electromagnetic induction and microwave sintering. Their c