(ZHANG CHAOQUN)

Tianjiu, a sheep that survived 62 days with an artificial heart implant using cutting-edge aerospace technology, shows off at a press conference in north China's Tianjin on May 13.

The development of the heart was jointly conducted by scientists from the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology and Tianjin-based TEDA International Cardiovascular Hospital.

Researchers used magnetic suspension and hydrodynamic bearings to design and produce a mechanical pump used to support heart function and blood flow in people with weakened hearts.

Once the device is marketed, it may help end suffering for the 16 million people in China with failing hearts.