Public human trials of a prototype breathing apparatus in space

June 30, 2026, Moscow. The 435nm project, with the support of the Frontiers of Science Guild, will conduct public tests of the photobioreactor with humans on July 2, 2026. The breath of the tester will be provided by photosynthesis occurring in the biomass of single-celled green algae. Similar experiments have not been conducted in our country since 1981.

Photobioreactors are necessary as a key link in the creation of space biological life support systems (BSWS), which will be required for interplanetary ships and planetary bases. In such systems, food production, water and air purification will be carried out with the help of living organisms.

In addition , such installations are already used on Earth for the production of dietary supplements, feed for farm animals and fish, wastewater and air treatment.

“Work on the creation of BSW has been underway in our country since the 60s of the last century at the Institute of Biomedical Problems (IMBP, Moscow) and the Institute of Biophysics (Krasnoyarsk). In particular, experiments involving humans were conducted there. Our team has studied the achievements of these institutions, improved them with the help of modern technologies, and is now entering into an experiment with humans. Further plans include the creation of links with fish and other aquatic organisms, as well as implementation in terrestrial production processes,” says project manager Alexander Shayenko.

435nm is an innovative project of a highly efficient automatic photobioreactor for growing single—celled microalgae. The main goal of the project is to create the first link of a biological life support system necessary for long —range space expeditions to the Moon and Mars.

The project is being implemented under the leadership of renowned Russian engineer and cosmonautics popularizer Alexander Shayenko in collaboration with biological scientists from IMBP OF THE Russian Academy of Sciences.

The Frontiers of Science Scientific and Technological Guild was founded in December 2024 by Ilya Czech, co-founder of the technology company developing bionic prostheses "Motorika".

The Foundation is engaged in the development of educational, scientific, technological and media projects in the field of fundamental space research. The Foundation 's goal is to create the technological, scientific and social basis necessary for Humanity to enter deep space and explore the Solar system.