Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #31644: Centaurus High School Investigates Bacterial Behavior in Space: Exploring the Lag Phase in Microgravity
- Agnirva.com
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Students at Centaurus High School in Lafayette, Colorado took on a cosmic challenge—to understand how microgravity influences the bacterial growth process, especially the lag phase. Their innovative experiment was part of the NanoRacks-National Design Challenge and aimed to deepen our understanding of microbiological processes in the unique environment of space.
On Earth, the lag phase is the period in which bacteria adapt to their environment before starting exponential growth. It's a critical phase that determines how rapidly bacteria can colonize or react to their surroundings. But in space, gravity—or rather, the lack of it—changes everything.
In their experiment, Centaurus students simulated Earth-like gravity using rotating frames and compared it to the behavior of the same bacteria in true microgravity aboard the ISS. The bacteria used were carefully chosen for their clear and measurable lag phases. They were launched to space and monitored through multiple ISS expeditions: 43/44, 49/50, and 51/52.
The data revealed that microgravity influenced both the duration and characteristics of the lag phase. Bacterial adaptation seemed delayed and more variable, suggesting that gravity plays a critical role in cellular behavior. These findings have practical implications for long-duration space missions, where understanding microbial growth is essential for food production, waste recycling, and crew health.
This experiment also showcased how high school students can meaningfully contribute to real scientific research. Their creativity and rigor highlight the power of education-driven innovation.
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