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Bioregeneration in space

L Wolf1

  • 1European Space Research and Technology Center, Noordwijk, The Netherlands.

Advances in Space Biology and Medicine
|January 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

ESA is developing a bioregenerative life support system using Chlorella algae to produce oxygen, water, and food for space missions. Initial tests show promising results for controlling algae growth and function in simulated space environments.

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Area of Science:

  • Space exploration
  • Bioregenerative life support systems
  • Algal biotechnology

Background:

  • Space missions require sustainable life support systems.
  • Bioregenerative systems offer a closed-loop solution for oxygen, water, and food.
  • Chlorella algae are a promising candidate for space-based cultivation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate a bioregenerative system using Chlorella algae for space applications.
  • To determine optimal conditions for CO2 to O2 conversion and maltose production.
  • To assess the feasibility of controlling Chlorella cultures for crew needs.

Main Methods:

  • Development of a microgravity-compatible photobioreactor and maltose separator.
  • Cultivation of Chlorella 241.80 in an airlift bioreactor by crew members over 25 days.

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  • Monitoring of culture parameters (pH, cell density) and microscopic examination for contamination.

    • Main Results:

    • Optimal conditions for CO2 to O2 conversion and maltose production were determined.
    • A functional microgravity-compatible photobioreactor and maltose separator were developed.
    • Chlorella growth rates were lower in the isolation facility due to reduced CO2 levels (0.1%) compared to lab conditions (0.5%).
    • No evidence of trace contaminant accumulation in the Chlorella culture was observed.

    Conclusions:

    • The study demonstrates the potential of Chlorella-based bioregenerative systems for spaceflight.
    • Further simulated operational testing is recommended.
    • The system shows promise for supporting long-term biological experiments and crew needs in space.