Sending a cluster of self-sufficient micro-ecosystems to NRHO (= Near-rectilinear halo orbit) around the moon in order to study long term effects of deep space radiation on algae, possibly other species and their DNA and further explore the value of algae in space exploration (food, oxygen, biofuel).

• enabling the study of long-term effects by keeping organisms alive long enough
• measuring mutations and ecosystem variables
• being in deep space but close enough to earth for quick intervention

Phase 1: DEVELOPMENT (estimated duration: 4 years)

• A small, simplified DNA chromatograph based on e.g. the Purigen Biosystems Ionic Purification System will be developed. It will be used to extract DNA from the organisms while in orbit.
• Simultaneously, fresh water algae belonging to the genus Arthrospira will be cultivated and optimized so the species can be used for oxygen suppliance, nutritional purposes and biofuel production. The genus Arthrospira is cultivated by many cultures on earth due to its unique properties.
• These optimized algae will be tested in compatibility with herbivore zooplankton. The interaction of autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms will enable self-sufficiency in orbit. Thus compatibility testing on earth is one of the most important aspects of preparation for the mission. In this testing phase optimal abiotic factors such as ph-Value and mineral content will also be investigated.
• Data will be collected about the genome and generational cycle of the algae as well as about its mutation rate inside the magnetosphere in order to pave the way for comparison with in-orbit measurements.
• A micro-ecosystem-destruct-sequence (MEDS) involving e.g. cyanic acid will be developed to ensure that quick intervention to prevent contamination of other planets with terrestrial life is always possible.

Phase 2: CONFIGURATION (estimated duration: 3 years)

• Establishment of ground control and a control group of algae habitats on Earth
• The final decision concerning the selection of algae and zooplankton cultures will be made and the selected cultures will be placed in their final habitats as spores.
• Construction of engineering test articles. (e.g. testing compatibility of the Oxford Nanopore Technologies MiniOn DNA Sequencer and the newly developed chromatograph or functionality of robotic mechanical processes inside the satellite)
• After the completion of testing and optimizing 48 identical satellites will be produced and prepared for launch.

Phase 3: EXECUTION (estimated duration: as long as possible)

• The satellites will be launched to NRHO around the moon by an Ariane 6 rocket.
• Thrice weekly the algae’s DNA will be sequenced and every day the O2 and CO2 values will be measured simultaneously in each satellite and the control group on earth. The data will promptly be  sent back to earth, where the mutations and self-sufficiency of each micro-ecosystem will be evaluated.
• In case of damaged satellites, MEDS will be initiated and the lifeless satellite will be disposed of without the risk of contamination.
• The data collected by this experiment will prove essential to pave the way for future human space exploration.

The Scientific Community

Estimated development time: 7 years

Launch: Can take place at any time

Monitoring: As long as possible