OrbHab Paper
Towards a Biomanufactory on Mars (2021)
ID: 256 Flag Paper
Title: Towards a Biomanufactory on Mars
Authors: A. Berliner et. al.
Journal Name: Front. Astron. Space Sci.
Year of Publication: 2021
Page Number:
Category: biosphere
Availability: pdf
Detail Page: /papers/256
Web Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fspas.2021.711550/full
BoK Link: [[paper:256]]
Abstract
A crewed mission to and from Mars may include an exciting array of enabling biotechnologies that leverage inherent mass, power, and volume advantages over traditional abiotic approaches. In this perspective, we articulate the scientific and engineering goals and constraints, along with example systems, that guide the design of a surface biomanufactory. Extending past arguments for exploiting stand-alone elements of biology, we argue for an integrated biomanufacturing plant replete with modules for microbial in situ resource utilization, production, and recycling of food, pharmaceuticals, and biomaterials required for sustaining future intrepid astronauts. We also discuss aspirational technology trends in each of these target areas in the context of human and robotic exploration missions.
Title: Towards a Biomanufactory on Mars
Authors: A. Berliner et. al.
Journal Name: Front. Astron. Space Sci.
Year of Publication: 2021
Page Number:
Category: biosphere
Availability: pdf
Detail Page: /papers/256
Web Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fspas.2021.711550/full
BoK Link: [[paper:256]]
Abstract
A crewed mission to and from Mars may include an exciting array of enabling biotechnologies that leverage inherent mass, power, and volume advantages over traditional abiotic approaches. In this perspective, we articulate the scientific and engineering goals and constraints, along with example systems, that guide the design of a surface biomanufactory. Extending past arguments for exploiting stand-alone elements of biology, we argue for an integrated biomanufacturing plant replete with modules for microbial in situ resource utilization, production, and recycling of food, pharmaceuticals, and biomaterials required for sustaining future intrepid astronauts. We also discuss aspirational technology trends in each of these target areas in the context of human and robotic exploration missions.