Scientists are developing a way to turn asteroids into nutritious biomass for long-term space travel, which could form the basis of astronauts’ diet.
Scientists are looking for solutions to feed astronauts during long space missions. The New York Times writes about this, citing research in the International Journal of Astrobiology.
Scientists suggest that asteroids could be used as a food source for space travelers, although the rocks themselves are not eaten.
The researchers proposed triggering chemical and physical processes to break up the asteroids, resulting in the formation of hydrocarbons. These compounds are fed to special bacteria, which then turn into biomass – the basis of the astronauts’ diet.
Although the first attempts at transformation were not very appetizing, new technologies created something similar to caramel yogurt. The research is based on samples of the asteroid Bennu collected during NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission. However, before consuming this biomass, scientists must test it for toxicity.
It was previously reported that the first flights to Mars could take place within two years, and the landing of the first humans on this planet within four years.
Source: korrespondent
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