Press release
American Public University System's Supernova Search Group Receives NASA Grant to Conduct Research on Plants in Outer Space
Research Seeks to Identify Sustainable, Algae-based Solutions to Help Support Astronauts on Prolonged Missions CHARLES TOWN, W.Va., Sept. 12, 2023
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[{"type":"text","content":"Research Seeks to Identify Sustainable, Algae-based Solutions to Help Support Astronauts on Prolonged Missions\nCHARLES TOWN, W.Va., Sept. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- American Public University System (APUS) today announced that the Spirulina Algae Group, part of the University's Supernova Search Group, has received a NASA research grant to study the use of spirulina, a blue-green algae, for growing plants in space environments. The research focuses on the use of Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica®1, scientifically known as Arthrospira platensis, to help support plant health, nutritional value, and production rates for many plants in similar conditions to Mars and the Moon. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \nThe Supernova Search Group deduced that future human settlements on the Moon and Mars will need to find ways to grow plants in soil environments (known as regolith) that have no organic material and do not typically support plant growth. The research seeks to identify sustainable solutions to help support astronauts on prolonged missions using algae-based systems.\n\"We are honored to be awarded a prestigious NASA research grant, and the funds will enable us to perform a comprehensive study on this important issue in space exploration,\" said Dr. Kristen Miller, an APUS professor who, along with STEM Department Chair Dr. Edward Albin, created the Supernova Search Group.\nThe research, funded by NASA's Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), will help in NASA's development of an outer space settlement capable of growing its own food and supporting human life. The Spirulina Group includes Dr. Miller, American Public University undergraduate student Emma Follis; American Military University alums Terry Trevino and Dr. Larry Harrison (professor, University of Hawaii); Erin Stamper (Cyanotech Corporation); and Dr. Brian Murphy (West Hawaii Explorations Academy).\n\"We're very excited about what the future holds for this dynamic, faculty-led student research team,\" said APUS Provost Dr. Elizabeth Johnson. \"This year-long project enables our undergraduate and graduate astronomy students to gain invaluable research experience.\"\nThe Spirulina Group chose spirulina algae for its many useful properties, including temperature and radiation resistance, and an ability to reclaim wastewater. The microalgae has been shown to suppo...