Review. Growing the future in orbit: Applications of macroalgae for food, air, and life support in space

Plants and other photoautotrophs have potential to support astronaut needs, including food production, atmospheric and water recycling, and the generation of pharmaceuticals and biofuels. A recent review by Murphy et al. provides a brief historical overview of microalgae and cyanobacteria research in space and highlights the potential of macroalgae such as kelp as promising candidates for future spaceborne experiments, while also acknowledging the associated challenges with this work. Because little to no research has been conducted on macroalgae under spaceflight conditions, the review primarily draws on studies of cyanobacteria and microalgae to inform potential applications. The authors describe several potential benefits of macroalgae, including nutrient supplementation in regolith (the upper layer of bedrock on bodies such as the Moon or Mars); use as a symbiotic partner with nitrogen-fixing bacteria or as a biospacer (an organic material that changes a material’s texture); integration into hydroponic systems; enhancement of plant phenotypic robustness through macroalgae-based foliar sprays or seed priming; improved flavor and nutritional quality of crops; and autonomous CO₂ scrubbing. However, significant challenges remain, particularly in the capture, transport, and storage of water systems and in maintaining macroalgal growth during spaceflight. Addressing these issues will likely require the development of reliable autonomous cultivation and life-support systems. (Summary by Ruth Nichols  www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-nichols-b0386519a). Dev. in App. Phycology. 10.1007/978-3-032-02955-3_28.