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![]() Title:Evaluation of the Morphological and Photosynthetic Response of Arthrospira Platensis and Chlorella Vulgaris During an Experimental Flight Authors:Cristopher Cascante, Thomas Chacón-Faeth, Montserrath Matamoros-Mora, Cristhian Castro-López, Tatiana Aguilar-Mena, Natalia Jiménez-Conejo and Ana Margarita Silva-Benavides Conference:CEC 2026 Tags:Aerospace Engineering, Arthrospira, Astrobiology, Bioregenerative Life Support Systems, Chlorella, Costa Rican Aerospace Team for Experimental Rocketry, CRATER, Cyanobacteria, Experimental Rocketry, Microalgae, Payload and Space Biology Abstract: HELIA (High-altitude Exposure of Living Inoculated Autotrophs) is a biological payload developed by the CRATER (Costa Rica Aerospace Team of Experimental Rocketry) team from the Aerospace Engineering Group at the University of Costa Rica. The project aims to evaluate the response of photosynthetic microorganisms during an experimental rocket flight for the transport and collection of data from biological samples. The study focuses on Arthrospira platensis and Chlorella vulgaris, organisms selected for their potential application in bioregenerative life support systems, the production of biofertilizers, food, and biofuels, as well as for their cellular differences. The experimental design includes flight groups and manipulation and laboratory controls to analyze changes associated with the different exposure conditions of the samples during the mission. The methodology includes protocols for the preparation, transport, and recovery of biological samples, as well as analysis using microscopy and chlorophyll measurement as morphological and photosynthetic indicators. The payload incorporates temperature sensors and accelerometers to record experimental conditions during flight, along with a data acquisition system. From an engineering perspective, the project includes the design and fabrication of the payload structure, the integration of sensors and electronic systems for data acquisition, as well as the internal layout of the biological and electronic components. In addition, biosafety and containment protocols are established for the handling of the cultures. The expected results aim to generate preliminary data on the response of these organisms during experimental flights, as well as to open new avenues for space and astrobiological research in Costa Rica and Central America, contributing to the development of experimental biological platforms within the regional aerospace sector. Evaluation of the Morphological and Photosynthetic Response of Arthrospira Platensis and Chlorella Vulgaris During an Experimental Flight ![]() Evaluation of the Morphological and Photosynthetic Response of Arthrospira Platensis and Chlorella Vulgaris During an Experimental Flight | ||||
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