ESA's HOBI-WAN Project Aims to Produce Food in Space Using Solar Foods' Microbial Protein
The European Space Agency (ESA) has launched the HOBI-WAN project, an eight-month study aboard the International Space Station to develop protein powder from bacteria, aiming to reduce resupply missions for future Moon and Mars crews. Utilizing Solein, a protein-rich powder produced by Solar Foods through the fermentation of Xanthobacter, the project addresses challenges such as gas fermentation in microgravity and safety, while also employing urea from human waste to support bacterial growth. This initiative seeks to create a sustainable food source tailored for long-duration space missions.
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The European Space Agency (ESA) has initiated the HOBI-WAN project, an eight-month food-production study on the International Space Station, aimed at creating protein powder from bacteria to eliminate resupply missions for Moon and Mars crews. Led by Chief Exploration Scientist Angelique Van Ombergen, the project is funded through the Terrae Novae program.
The process utilizes Solein, a protein-rich powder produced by Solar Foods in Finland via the fermentation of Xanthobacter, which feeds on hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. This method circumvents the need for farmland and sunlight.
Key challenges include managing gas fermentation in microgravity and ensuring gas safety. OHB System and Solar Foods are developing gas injection cartridges, and the system will utilize urea from human waste to aid bacterial growth. The project aims to create a sustainable food source that adapts to the needs of space crews, ultimately enhancing long-duration missions.
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