In such a system, which could be used aboard spacecraft and space stations in the near future, microalgae could be used to clean air, water, and (perhaps) also to produce food. Researchers at the Stuttgart University of Space Systems began researching possible space applications for microalgae in 2008, and in 2014, in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the private aerospace company Airbus, they started to develop a photobioreactor (culture systems of photosynthetic microorganisms) using the Chlorella vulgaris microalgae. This microalga has a photosynthetic efficiency up to ten times higher than that of more complex plants, and if used as a hybrid life support system (LSS), they can remove carbon dioxide from the cabin atmosphere and produce oxygen through photosynthesis. On a small scale these algae work, and now they must also be tested in space. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station, which was recently found full of fungi and bacteria, will allow microalgae to grow for 180 days, which will allow the photobioreactor to be evaluated. This alga is also excellent as a food source. "Chlorella biomass is a common food supplement and can contribute to a balanced diet thanks to its high content of proteins, unsaturated fatty acids and various vitamins, including vitamin B12 .. if you like sushi, you will love it," he said. Harald Helisch, a biotechnologist at the Institute of Space System who is participating in the study.
