Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32266: Algae in Orbit: Investigating Astaxanthin Production in Space
- Agnirva.com
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
What if a powerful antioxidant could be grown in space? That’s the question researchers tried to answer through the Freshwater Algae Production of Astaxanthin experiment, conducted aboard the ISS during Expeditions 61 and 62.
Astaxanthin is a red pigment found in certain algae and seafood. It’s praised for its antioxidant properties, often used in supplements, cosmetics, and even aquaculture. The experiment, led by Michelle Lucas from Higher Orbits and supported by Space Tango, aimed to grow freshwater algae in microgravity to assess its viability for producing astaxanthin.
Algae are incredibly efficient biological machines. They can produce energy, nutrients, and even oxygen—all crucial for future space missions. But how does microgravity influence their behavior? This experiment cultured algae in controlled environments aboard the ISS to evaluate pigment production, growth rate, and metabolic activity.
Interestingly, microgravity can alter how cells express certain genes. In some cases, this leads to enhanced production of compounds like astaxanthin. Early observations showed promising signs of pigment accumulation, suggesting that space-grown algae might be a future source of high-value biomolecules.
Why is this important? For long-term space exploration, astronauts will need to grow their own food and supplements. If algae can produce vital nutrients and antioxidants in orbit, it could reduce reliance on Earth resupply missions.
Beyond space, these findings help improve algae farming techniques back on Earth, especially in closed environments where efficiency is key.
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