Researchers from Western University’s Institute for Earth and Space Exploration have come up with a groundbreaking idea that could change the future of space travel. They have found a way to use material harvested from asteroids to create food for astronauts during long-duration missions.
The current method of relying on resupply missions from Earth for food is costly and complex, especially for missions to the outer reaches of the solar system. Farming in space is also challenging. That’s why the researchers propose using organic compounds found in asteroids to produce edible biomass through a process called pyrolysis.
By breaking down organic compounds in asteroids and feeding them to microbes in oxygen-free environments, astronauts could potentially have a local source of food while exploring space. The researchers focused on carbonaceous chondrites, a type of asteroid containing water and organic matter, such as Bennu, which was visited by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission in 2018.
According to the study, asteroids like Bennu could potentially produce thousands of metric tons of edible biomass, providing enough calories to support thousands of astronaut life years. This method could revolutionize long-duration space travel by reducing the need to launch large quantities of food from Earth.
However, further research is needed to determine how asteroids would be mined and processed during missions, as well as whether the resulting food is safe and palatable for astronauts. The researchers acknowledge that more work is required to fully implement this innovative approach.
The study, published in the International Journal of Astrobiology, highlights the potential of using asteroids as a sustainable food source for humans exploring the solar system. This research opens up new possibilities for future space missions and could pave the way for a more self-sufficient approach to space travel.
In conclusion, the idea of mining asteroids for food presents exciting possibilities for the future of space exploration. By utilizing resources found in space, astronauts could become less reliant on Earth for supplies, making long-duration missions more feasible and sustainable. As we continue to push the boundaries of space travel, innovative solutions like this will be key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe.
