Scientists are exploring the possibility of food from cells in space. According to BBC, the project is implemented with the financial support of the European Space Agency (ESA).
The project conducts studies on the possibility of growing laboratory -created products in space, where low gravity and increased radiation levels are observed.
The purpose of the study is to reduce the cost of nutrition of astronauts, which can reach 20 thousand pounds per day. If the experiments of scientists bring positive results, in the future astronauts will be able to grow foods such as steaks, mashed potatoes and desserts, right in laboratories in orbit.
The project uses a system called “Bioreactor”, designed to produce the main nutrients – proteins, fats and carbohydrates – from cells, turning them into full food.
This technology, developed at the center of stable proteins of the Imperial College of London, requires less resources compared to traditional agriculture and has a minimal environmental impact.
, as part of an orbit experiment, a more compact bioreactor was sent using the SpaceX Falcon 9 missile. This system will be returned to Earth using the first commercial ESA – Phoenix returns.
Dr. Akil Shamsul, General Director and Founder of the British company Frontier Space, said this study is the first step to create a small food production at the International Space Station over the next two years. “Our dream is to create production facilities in space and on the moon,” he added.
Chamsul also noted that such technologies are necessary so that people can live in space on an ongoing basis.
The first astronaut of Great Britain, Helen Sharman, also emphasized the importance of obtaining more diverse and nutrients in space. She noted that such products can play a key role in maintaining the health of astronauts and preventing weight loss during long -term cosmic missions.