Algentech has been recently awarded a grant by the European Space Agency via its Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP). The project entitled “environment resilient plants for space exploration” will focus on the generation of plants engineered to grow in perchlorate-contaminated soil similar to conditions found on Mars. In paralell, different compounds will be tested for plant protection against ionising radiation. A successful outcome of the project will also have positive impact on Earth where perchlorate pollution in soil is difficult to manage and enhanced phytoremediation can provide a cheaper and cleaner alternative to current treatments.
More information on OSIP can be found here: ESA – Implemented OSIP ideas — July 2021
