Bioplastic Shelters Support Algae Growth in Mars-Like Conditions for Space Habitats

Algae bioplastic could be key to human space exploration, including building habitats on Mars

Scientists have developed a new bioplastic derived from green algae which could resolve major challenges in the pursuit of sending humans to live on other worlds like Mars. Human missions to other planets will necessitate building habitats – structures for the intrepid explorers to eat, sleep, do research and engage in recreational activities. A significant drawback is that transporting the materials necessary to build such habitats would be a c…

Bioplastic habitats on Mars could be built from algae

A lab experiment that simulated Mars conditions showed that green algae can grow in plastic containers made from the same algae, setting the stage for a self-sustaining system to build habitats on the planet

A 3-D printed, plastic beaker could help algae grow on Mars

Algae grown under Mars-like conditions could make bioplastic building materials for structures to harbor life in space.

Bioplastic shelters support algae growth in Mars-like conditions for space habitats

If humans are ever going to live beyond Earth, they'll need to construct habitats. But transporting enough industrial material to create livable spaces would be incredibly challenging and expensive. Researchers at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) think there's a better way, through biology.

Algae Can Create Bioclastic Habitats on Mars

Bioplastic vessels in chambers mimicking Martian conditions Wordsworth et al., Sci. Adv. 11, EADP4985 Future habitats on Mars could support operations utilizing algae grown locally. Initial experiments have demonstrated a functional circulation system simulating Martian conditions in the lab, aiding future explorers in establishing habitats on the Red Planet. What materials will you take to [...] The post Algae Can Create Bioclastic Habitats on …