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

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  07 November 2016

M.V. Tarasashvili ,
Sh.A. Sabashvili ,
S.L. Tsereteli ,
N.D. Aleksidze  and
O. Dalakishvili
M.V. Tarasashvili*
Affiliation:
Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Department of the Exact and Natural Sciences, I. Chavchavadze Avenue, Tbilisi 0128, Ceorgia
Sh.A. Sabashvili
Affiliation:
Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Department of the Exact and Natural Sciences, I. Chavchavadze Avenue, Tbilisi 0128, Ceorgia
S.L. Tsereteli
Affiliation:
Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Department of the Exact and Natural Sciences, I. Chavchavadze Avenue, Tbilisi 0128, Ceorgia
N.D. Aleksidze
Affiliation:
Iv. Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Department of the Exact and Natural Sciences, I. Chavchavadze Avenue, Tbilisi 0128, Ceorgia
O. Dalakishvili
Affiliation:
Georgia Technical University, Department of the Electronics and Magnetic Fields, 77 Kostava street, Tbilisi 0175, Georgia
*
e-mail: mariam.tarasashvili@ens.tsu.edu.ge
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Abstract

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.

Keywords

low-pressure hypoxic environmentMars chamberMars climate simulationSolar radiationsurface irradiation
Type
Research Article
Information
International Journal of Astrobiology , Volume 16 , Issue 4 , October 2017 , pp. 328 - 342
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2016 

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