The influence of different storage conditions on Limnospira indica, a promising candidate for air revitalization in space

Cyanobacterium Limnospira indica is being explored for oxygen production and carbon dioxide removal from air in future space stations. Before activation in space, it undergoes a transport and storage phase lasting from one to several weeks, during which it must remain dormant. This study examines the effects of dormancy in dark and cold conditions on L. indica's photosynthetic performance and biomass composition after storage. Results showed that storage negatively affects photosynthetic growth and biomass composition, but the impact depends on factors such as initial cell concentration, medium pH, cell pigment content, nutrient and gas availability, and storage duration. Storage was also tested under simulated microgravity conditions, but no adverse effects of reduced gravity were observed when healthy cultures were used.