Cyanobacteria and Algal-Based Biological Life Support System (BLSS) and Planetary Surface Atmospheric Revitalizing...

Area of Science:

• Astrobiology
• Biotechnology
• Space Exploration

Background:

• Harsh environmental conditions on Earth fostered robust biochemical systems in cyanobacteria.
• Current space mission limitations are tied to vehicle mass capacity for resources.
• Cyanobacteria possess diverse capabilities, including bioweathering and nutritional value.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel three-reactor system for cyanobacterial in situ resource utilization (ISRU).
• To enable extended crewed space missions beyond current temporal limitations.
• To focus on the nutritional stage of bioreactor development.

Main Methods:

• Designing a series of three bioreactors for sequential processing.
• Utilizing siderophilic and non-siderophilic cyanobacteria for complementary functions.
• Integrating biological life support system (BLSS) bioreactors for resource conversion.

Main Results:

• The proposed system aims for regolith processing, nutritional product generation, gas liberation, and biofuel production.
• Synergistic growth and resource sharing among cyanobacteria species are foundational.
• Emphasis is placed on optimizing the nutritional output stage.

Conclusions:

• Cyanobacterial ISRU and BLSS bioreactors are key to overcoming resource limitations in space exploration.
• A multi-stage bioreactor system can sustainably support crewed missions.
• This approach enhances mission duration and self-sufficiency in extraterrestrial environments.