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Cyanobacteria and microalgae in supporting human habitation on Mars
Lydia J Mapstone1, Mara N Leite2, Saul Purton1
1Algal Research Group, Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
Biotechnology Advances
|March 23, 2022
Summary
Microalgae show promise for supporting human missions to Mars by providing essential resources like oxygen and food. However, realizing this potential requires significant infrastructure and a reliable power source for cultivation.
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology
- Biotechnology
- Space Exploration
Background:
- Human missions to Mars face significant challenges due to the planet's remoteness and harsh conditions.
- Developing sustainable life support systems is critical for long-term Martian habitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential role of microalgae in supporting human presence on Mars.
- To analyze current research on microalgae in biological life support systems and space missions.
- To explore challenges and propose solutions for microalgal cultivation on Mars.
Main Methods:
- Systematic analysis of microalgae in biological life support systems.
- Overview of microalgal experiments in space missions over the last 60 years.
- Discussion of technical challenges for Martian cultivation.
Main Results:
- Microalgae can potentially provide oxygen, food, biopolymers, and pharmaceuticals for astronauts.
- Cultivation on Mars presents technical challenges, but subterranean bioreactors are a promising solution.
- Significant infrastructure and a reliable power source are necessary for successful implementation.
Conclusions:
- Microalgae offer substantial benefits for Martian settlers, addressing key resource needs.
- Further research and development in synthetic biology can enhance microalgae's role in deep-space exploration.
- Successful Martian habitation using microalgae depends on advanced infrastructure and power solutions.
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