Fig. 2: Illustrative guide to the four key topics of future human outposts on the Moon and on Mars that can be addressed by synthetic biology. | npj Microgravity

Fig. 2: Illustrative guide to the four key topics of future human outposts on the Moon and on Mars that can be addressed by synthetic biology.

From: Synthetic biology for space exploration

Fig. 2

By efficient use of local extraterrestrial resources and promotion of a more sustainable supply chain, synthetic biology can contribute significantly to human space exploration missions. This is done through incorporating the extraction, processing, and production of raw materials into consumables (A), enhancing recycling ranging from food production to waste management within life support systems (B), supporting radiation and stress protection strategies by producing stable biomolecules to mitigate harmful biological effects within life support systems (C), and engineering customized therapies, nutraceuticals, and biosensors to bolster astronauts’ health (D). CREDIT: Midjourney software.

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