Due to its high nutritional value and protein content, the usefulness of the edible algae Spirulina is attracting attention in space development. Research is underway at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the European Space Agency (ESA).
In Japan, research on spirulina for outer space is progressing. Here, we would like to introduce the space development research conducted by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the Chitose Group.
Spirulina space development research with JAXA
From 2018 to 2019, the Chitose Group worked with JAXA and others to develop a resource-saving and compact protein production system using the edible algae Spirulina.・Tavelmout Co., Ltd.). Following the previous research and development, in 2020, we are conducting joint research with JAXA and the Shidax Group on " Improvement of the circulatory culture system for edible algae Spirulina on the moon farm and development of menus containing raw Spirulina " (Chitose Group's Participating companies: Tavelmout Corporation.
In the research up to 2019, we succeeded in developing a spirulina production system assuming space utilization. In 2020, with the cooperation of JAXA, we plan to further improve the Spirulina production system for practical use. In addition, assuming that astronauts on long-term stays will cultivate spirulina on the moon farm, we are working with the Shidax Group to develop a lunar food menu that incorporates highly nutritious raw spirulina.
In addition, in 2021, it was adopted as an experiment theme (feasibility study theme) using the onboard environment of the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" on the International Space Station (ISS). The theme will be "Demonstration of Spirulina carrier culture for efficient protein production and CO2 treatment". In this study, we will analyze the biological stability of spirulina grown on the ISS, which is important for the health of astronauts. (Participating companies of the Chitose Group; Chitose Laboratory Co., Ltd. and Tavelmout Co., Ltd.).
I feel that the day when we can eat algae and spirulina in space is steadily approaching.
Why we must use “raw” Spirulina for space development
Spirulina currently distributed on the ground is a dry powder because it can be stored for a long time by heat sterilization.
However, in a space environment, it is assumed that spirulina will be cultured and eaten immediately (used as a food ingredient), so it will be necessary to develop a menu that uses unheated raw spirulina. Raw spirulina has no taste or smell compared to heat-dried spirulina, and its nutritional components, which are easily destroyed by heat, can be ingested without being damaged.
There are only a few companies in the world that produce and sell raw spirulina, which is necessary for space development research. Chitose Group's Tavelmout Co., Ltd. is the only manufacturer of raw spirulina in Japan, and the only manufacturer in the world that has successfully commercialized raw spirulina on a large scale.
Through this research, the Chitose Group hopes to expand awareness and promote research on raw spirulina, and to provide a protein source that is good for both the global and space environments.
