Small photosynthetic satellites for the conceptual validation of their potential to ensure sustainable long-term space exploration

Barnett N.A.R.; Alvarez M.O.; Araujo D.K.H.; Aquino R.C.D.; Churape J.A.R.; Hernande A.P.S.; Perez N.L.Z.; Martell L.G.B. · Proceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC (2024) · DOI: 10.52202/078365-0156

Resumen

Climate change poses a serious threat to the future of humanity and the planet. The increasingly severe effects such as heatwaves and greenhouse gasses are strongly impacting all kinds of ecosystems. Furthermore, global warming is jeopardizing not only the survival of future generations but also that of all living beings in general, making mitigation measures urgent and unavoidable. On the other hand, space exploration also leaves a significant carbon footprint by utilizing rockets primarily powered by fuels containing Perchlorates, Aluminum, and other compounds that, upon reaction, generate pollutants besides originating from fossil fuel sources. This model is not sustainable if responsible access to space is to be ensured in the short term. Therefore, the implementation of small satellites equipped with a photocatalytic system is proposed to reduce carbon dioxide in very low earth orbit (VLEO), with the aim of emulating the process of artificial photosynthesis using photocatalytic materials such as Titanium Dioxide (TÍO2) When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, TÍO2 generates electron-hole pairs, which allow the transformation of CO2 into fuels, such as short-chain hydrocarbons. In this way, the free radicals generated by titanium dioxide break the CO2 bonds and transform them into less harmful compounds, thereby reducing concentrations of this greenhouse gas. This process would also contribute to the sustainability of the nanosatellite itself by utilizing the gases as a partial propulsion system. This solution, based on photosynthetic satellites, would allow us to address critical challenges related to climate change in a completely sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. At the same time, it would lay the foundation for a future of space exploration, where the conversion of unwanted gases into useful compounds could be key to sustainability in long-term space missions. Moreover, it opens a window of opportunity for applying this same technology in everyday life, using planet-friendly technologies and thus ensuring an environmental preservation legacy for future generations.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos