Cultivation of Cyanobacteria and Microalgae using Simulated in-situ Available Resources for the Production of useful Bio-compounds on Mars: Modelling of Experiments

Abstract

To increase the likelihood of successful long-term manned missions to Mars, it is necessary to explore the potential for utilizing in-situ resources to cultivate microalgae for food and supplement production. This study examines the feasibility of growing Spirulina platensis in a medium consisting of high volume percentages of Martian Medium, which is produced using resources available on Mars, such as regolith, atmospheric CO2, and astronauts' urine. An experimental activity is performed to simulate the microalgae growth process on Mars, demonstrating good productivity. A mathematical model is developed to describe biomass growth dynamics as a function of pH, light intensity, microgravity, and nutrient concentration. The model is validated and then utilized to identify optimal operating conditions for maximizing biomass productivity on Mars and meeting finding the nutritional and supplement needs of a six-member crew.