SporeSat

"Lab-on-a-chip" experiments to gain a deeper knowledge of the mechanism of plant cell gravity sensing.

The primary goal of the SporeSat Project is to utilize an autonomous, free-flying spacecraft to conduct scientific experiments to gain a deeper knowledge of the mechanism of plant cell gravity sensing. The project’s approach allows for realtime measurement of calcium signaling and maintenance of variable gravity treatments during the flight experiment.

Technical objectives focus on refining current lab-on-a-chip sensor system in the development of a new CEL-C Advanced bioCD designed for the micro-satellite platform. Space biology science experiment project to investigate biophysical mechanisms of plant gravity sensing using “lab-on- a-chip” experiment approach. Utilize flight proven spacecraft technologies demonstrated on prior missions such as PharmaSat and O/OREOS. Serve as a technology platform to evaluate new microsensor technologies for enabling future fundamental biology missions.