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Harvard Grows Algae in Bioplastic Shelters Under Mars-Like Conditions

UNITED STATES, JUL 4 – Researchers grew green algae inside 3D-printed bioplastic chambers under Mars-like conditions, achieving photosynthesis rates comparable to Earth, advancing sustainable habitat design for Mars missions.

  • On July 2, researchers led by Robin Wordsworth at Harvard demonstrated green algae growing inside 3D-printed bioplastic habitats under Mars-like conditions.
  • They developed the bioplastic habitats to address the challenge that Mars’ low atmospheric pressure prevents liquid water and makes sustaining human life difficult.
  • The algae Dunaliella tertiolecta thrived in translucent polylactic acid vessels simulating Mars’ 600 Pascals pressure and carbon dioxide-rich air, showing Earth-like photosynthesis rates.
  • Wordsworth described a habitat made from bioplastic that supports the growth of algae, which in turn has the potential to generate additional bioplastic, creating a self-sustaining, regenerative system.
  • This sustainable bioplastic system could reduce dependence on Earth supplies and support future extraterrestrial habitats, also offering spin-off benefits for Earth sustainability technology.
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Phys.org broke the news in United Kingdom on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
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