Semi-automated operation of Mars Climate Simulation chamber – MCSC modelled for biological experiments

• Published in: International journal of astrobiology 2017-10, Vol.16 (4), p.328-342
• Main Authors: Tarasashvili, M.V., Sabashvili, Sh.A., Tsereteli, S.L., Aleksidze, N.D., Dalakishvili, O.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Agriculture; Astrobiology; Atmospheric models; Automation; Biotechnology; Building materials; Carbon dioxide; Climate; Colonization; Computer simulation; Conduction; Construction; Construction materials; Environmental conditions; Experiments; Genetic modification; Genetically engineered organisms; Genetically modified organisms; Habitability; Lamps; Manned Mars missions; Mars; Mars climate; Microorganisms; Physiological functions; Plants (botany); Radiation; Reliability engineering; Settlements; Simulation; Space suits; Structural reliability
• ISSN: 1473-5504; 1475-3006
• DOI: 10.1017/S1473550416000380

The Mars Climate Simulation Chamber (MCSC) (GEO PAT 12 522/01) is designed for the investigation of the possible past and present habitability of Mars, as well as for the solution of practical tasks necessary for the colonization and Terraformation of the Planet. There are specific tasks such as the experimental investigation of the biological parameters that allow many terrestrial organisms to adapt to the imitated Martian conditions: chemistry of the ground, atmosphere, temperature, radiation, etc. MCSC is set for the simulation of the conduction of various biological experiments, as well as the selection of extremophile microorganisms for the possible Settlement, Ecopoesis and/or Terraformation purposes and investigation of their physiological functions. For long-term purposes, it is possible to cultivate genetically modified organisms (e.g., plants) adapted to the Martian conditions for future Martian agriculture to sustain human Mars missions and permanent settlements. The size of the chamber allows preliminary testing of the functionality of space-station mini-models and personal protection devices such as space-suits, covering and building materials and other structures. The reliability of the experimental biotechnological materials can also be tested over a period of years. Complex and thorough research has been performed to acquire the most appropriate technical tools for the accurate engineering of the MCSC and precious programmed simulation of Martian environmental conditions. This paper describes the construction and technical details of the equipment of the MCSC, which allows its semi-automated, long-term operation.