Exploring Biological Research in Zero-Gravity Conditions Expands Horizons for Life Sciences

The commercial development of space laboratories for scientific experiments is gaining momentum, as key players strive to establish a strong presence in the burgeoning in-orbit science sector. One such company leading the charge is Axiom Space, which is building the world's first commercial space station, Axiom Station.

Axiom Space has partnered with the Sanford Stem Cell Institute for studying tumor organoids in microgravity. The company is also conducting research on the potential for brain organoids to assist with research in Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, Axiom Space is testing a new cancer drug in collaboration with microgravity research.

Axiom Station, set to provide an accessible platform for private companies and governments to continue innovative research and development, aims to enable iterative science, expand access, and bring down costs over time, building new sustainable economies in space. The station presents opportunities for microgravity manufacturing, particularly in the production of perfect stem cells and the flawless crystallization of semiconductor materials.

Stem cells, used in regenerative medicine, can arrange themselves in new three-dimensional structures in a microgravity environment. This unique property could lead to more efficient stem cell production or a higher yield, as well as the creation of "organoids".

Other commercial players in this exciting field include Airbus LOOP, Blue Origin, Sierra Space's Orbital Reef, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin's Starlab. The UK's Space Forge and Germany's Eva consortium are also heavily involved, with Space Forge aiming to become the primary commercial platform for in-space semiconductor production, offering rapid turnaround from manufacturing to delivery on Earth.

The UK's Space Forge recently launched ForgeStar-1 for in-orbit semiconductor manufacturing and testing innovative heat shield mechanics for safe, reusable satellite re-entry. Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre was the first to successfully demonstrate the creation of new induced pluripotent stem cells in space.

Dr. Lucie Low, Chief Scientist at Axiom Space, emphasizes the potential of microgravity research for innovation and overcoming challenges in access to space. Dr. Arun Sharma, director of Cedars-Sinai's Center for Space Medicine Research, shares this sentiment, hoping to find something analogous for cell biology in microgravity.

According to McKinsey & Co, the space manufacturing market could reach $10 billion by 2030. As the International Space Station prepares for decommissioning by the end of 2030, a range of commercial space stations are vying to be at the forefront of in-orbit science. The race is on for these commercial players to push the boundaries of what is possible in microgravity research and manufacturing.

Exploring Biological Research in Zero-Gravity Conditions Expands Horizons for Life Sciences