Chapter 1: The Challenges of Life Beyond Earth

Life in outer space presents significant challenges, particularly when it comes to resource management. Establishing a space station on the Moon or Mars necessitates innovative technologies that enable the efficient utilization of limited resources.

The ERIS research initiative aims to leverage space technologies for environmental protection and the sustainable preservation of life on our planet. The University of Stuttgart plays a pivotal role in ERIS, focusing on the development of sustainable life support and supply systems to ensure that oxygen, water, and food can be produced efficiently for space missions. Inhabitants of a space station, isolated from Earth, must be able to generate their own necessary resources, making efficiency paramount. This challenge reflects a broader global concern: the need for significant advancements to combat climate change, meet sustainable development goals, and ensure a livable future for generations to come.

The European Institute for Space Resources Research (ERS) seeks to explore how space technologies can be applied to tackle societal challenges on Earth. Led by TU Bergakademie Freiberg, this initiative aims to establish a major research hub in Lusatia, scheduled to open in 2023. This center will unite experts in space technology, materials science, and production, facilitating the examination of essential technologies and the creation of necessary equipment, as well as the entire supply chain. The IRS will contribute significantly to the life support and supply systems.

For the ERIS project, the Institute for Space Systems (IRS) at the University of Stuttgart will spearhead the development of innovative research methodologies for life support systems, bioproduction, and energy management. With extensive experience in biological resource-based life support systems, IRS is dedicated to researching efficient and sustainable methods for producing oxygen, water, and food for future space inhabitants. Dr. Gisela Detrell, the project coordinator, emphasizes the importance of bioproduction in creating viable products.

Historically, IRS has concentrated on microalgae cultivation and the subsequent processing needed to transform microalgal biomass into food. The institute has also developed materials to evaluate varying air compositions and combustion concepts. Recent efforts have included research on biomass sensors and automated processing. These insights will be integrated into the ERIS project to create a cohesive network and system design suited for diverse models.

The ERIS project aspires to establish specialized infrastructure in Lusatia, a region undergoing transformation due to coal mining shifts. This initiative aims to concentrate national efforts on crucial research areas necessary for the utilization of space resources. This collaborative network of experts and industry leaders is designed to foster new social capabilities, enabling participation in international research and the advancement of technologies essential not only for the future of space exploration but also for the sustainable management of Earth's resources.

Chapter 2: Harnessing Space Technology for Earth's Future

Discover how space technologies can improve life on Earth and contribute to a sustainable future in this insightful video featuring Danielle Wood.

Explore the ways space exploration is aiding environmental preservation in this engaging presentation by Yakob Reed.