435nm photobioreactor: human-in-the-loop trials planned for summer

Gravity Frontiers (as investor) sees the 435nm photobioreactor as a key step toward autonomous life-support for interplanetary missions. The project combines advances in biotechnology and engineering, building on Russia’s space-life-science legacy. It draws on experience from the Institute of Biomedical Problems (1960s–1980s). The core is microalgae that take up carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, purify water, and can be processed into food. The Russian photobioreactor has shown cultivation rates up to 18 g/L/day—above many international benchmarks (often 1–5 g/L/day). Closed-loop human trials are planned for summer 2025. Success would help supply crews with clean air, water, and dietary supplements.