What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to evaluate the genetic stability and growth of Arthrospira platensis during a six-month spaceflight mission.

May 9, 2026Open Access

Space Algae-2 Ground and Lunar Analog Studies in Preparation for Long-Duration Propagation of Cyanobacteria in Spaceflight

Puntos clave

This research aims to evaluate the genetic stability and growth of Arthrospira platensis during a six-month spaceflight mission.
Conducted preflight testing to optimize growth conditions in gas permeable bioreactor bags.
Utilized flight-like hardware and solar powered LED lights during a lunar analog mission.
Developed cryopreservation and post-harvest storage methods for algal biomass.
Preliminary data shows stable growth of A. platensis under simulated space conditions.
Enhanced nutrient profile of harvested biomass indicates potential for food supplementation.
Multi-omics analysis will reveal mutation rates and changes in gene expression post-flight.

Resumen

There are numerous applications for microalgae in spaceflight missions and on Earth, such as, oxygen production, carbon dioxide removal, nutrition, wastewater processing, and biofuel production. Space Algae-2 aims to test the genetic stability of Arthrospira platensis, commonly known as spirulina, during six-months of continuous culture in spaceflight on the International Space Station. Long-duration exposure to ionizing radiation and microgravity may impact growth, nutrient composition, and genetic stability. The high protein, vitamin, antioxidant content, and radiation resistance make spirulina a promising candidate for bioregenerative life support systems during long-duration missions. A concept of operations was developed to grow and harvest algal biomass in space. Preflight testing experiments were conducted to optimize conditions for an extended growth period in a gas permeable bioreactor bag. Preflight and post-harvest storage methods were developed in addition to a novel cryopreservation method. After sample return, multi-omics analysis will be conducted to determine the mutation rate, gene expression, and protein and metabolite profile. The concept of operations for Space Algae-2 was tested at HI-SEAS (Hawai'i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation) during a six-day lunar analog mission (EMMIHS23, EuroMoonMars, International MoonBase Alliance, HI-SEAS, 2023). A. platensis was grown in the semi-controlled environment using flight-like hardware and solar powered LED lights. Then, the biomass was harvested and used to supplement bread as an example of A. platensis utilization. Overall, the data collected from Space Algae-2 will inform potential bioengineering of spirulina for space and terrestrial applications.

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