Space and Spirulina
DIC is engaged in various activities for regional and social contribution.
ー Possibility for self-sustenance in space with Spirulina
Around 40 liters of Spirulina culture medium can provide the oxygen and food that a person needs to survive for a day. We look forward to the day when the easy absorbability and high nutritional value of Spirulina earn it a major role in space stations.
We are jointly developing a closed-loop life support system with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
The system uses Spirulina and fish living in a symbiotic relationship, mutually supporting each other’s survival. The fish obtain the oxygen they need from the photosynthetic algae that Spirulina is, while the Spirulina harnesses the carbon dioxide released by the fish for use in carbon assimilation. The aim of this system is to ensure a long-term supply of oxygen and food for a future where humankind lives in space, such as for extended stays on a space station.
