The Future of Space Exploration: Creating Protein from Thin Air
In a groundbreaking initiative, the European Space Agency (ESA) has embarked on a mission to address a critical question: How can astronauts sustain themselves on extended journeys to the Moon and Mars without relying on Earth's resupply?
The HOBI-WAN project, funded by ESA's Terrae Novae Exploration Programme, aims to test an innovative method for producing protein-rich food in microgravity. OHB System AG, in collaboration with Solar Foods, a Finnish food tech pioneer, has been tasked with developing a space-compatible fermentation technology known as Solein.
Providing a sustainable and nutritious food source for astronauts beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is a monumental challenge. In scenarios where pre-deployed food depots or frequent resupply missions are impractical or costly, alternative solutions are essential. These alternatives can also enhance life support and recycling systems for future LEO platforms.
The primary goal of HOBI-WAN is to validate the production of a protein-rich powder under microgravity conditions. Solar Foods' bioprocess technology must be transformed into a compact, autonomous system capable of reliable operation in space. This includes designing special cartridges to inject gases without fluid leakage, a critical aspect due to the explosive nature of hydrogen and oxygen mixtures.
The first phase of the project, spanning eight months, will focus on developing a ground-based model of Solein production technology. This will be followed by a second phase dedicated to manufacturing, testing, and launching the actual flight equipment.
The technology demonstrator is based on a simple yet ingenious principle. In a bioreactor, a nutrient solution containing a bacterial culture is fed with gaseous hydrogen, oxygen, and CO₂ from storage tanks. In the future, this process could be scaled up by utilizing the hydrogen, oxygen, and CO₂ produced by the crew and the habitat's life support system, offering a more efficient recycling system than the one currently used on the ISS. Instead of ammonia, as used on Earth, urea serves as the nitrogen source for protein synthesis in space.
Solein, the name of the protein-rich powder, is grown through the fermentation of Xanthobacter, requiring no farmland or sunlight. The experiment will be housed in a standard middeck locker, complete with all necessary components for the bioreactor, including an incubator, sensors, control units, and sample extraction systems.
Angelique Van Ombergen, ESA's Chief Exploration Scientist, emphasizes the project's significance: "This initiative is pivotal in enhancing the autonomy, resilience, and well-being of our astronauts. For humans to undertake long-duration missions on the Moon and, one day, Mars, we need innovative and sustainable solutions to survive with limited resources. The European Space Agency is developing a crucial capability for the future of space exploration."
Jürgen Kempf, HOBI-WAN Project Manager at OHB, adds: "For over two decades, OHB has been developing, operating, and maintaining scientific payloads for the ISS since the European Columbus module was commissioned. Our deep understanding of the ISS environment, coupled with our expertise in life support systems and scientific experiment platforms, makes us the ideal partner to bring Solar Foods' technology into orbit. We eagerly anticipate this collaboration."
However, Kempf highlights that the mission's scope extends beyond testing a novel protein source: "We are exploring ways to sustainably support human life in space. The insights gained could address global challenges on Earth, such as resource scarcity and food security. We are proud to contribute our expertise to a project that connects space innovation with planetary sustainability."
Arttu Luukanen, Senior Vice President Space & Defence at Solar Foods, expresses enthusiasm for the collaboration: "We are thrilled to work with OHB. Their expertise in evaluation and certification, particularly regarding mandatory safety requirements, will help us design a system suitable for the space environment, provide the necessary data, and most importantly, ensure safe operation onboard a manned space station."
This project showcases the innovative spirit and collaborative efforts of space agencies and private companies, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space exploration and sustainability.
