Lunar Life Survival Challenge

Testing Earth's Biodiversity: Adaptation for the Moon, Sustainability for Our Planet

Overview

Welcome to the Lunar Life Survival Challenge, a citizen science initiative that invites you to select and test flora (plants, mosses, fungus, etc.) that you think could survive the trip to the Moon. This challenge is part of the Australian Lunar Experiment Promoting Horticulture (ALEPH), which aims to establish the conditions necessary for sustainable plant growth on the lunar surface.

Why It’s Important

The success of future lunar missions and long-term human presence on the Moon depends on our ability to cultivate plants and other flora in the Moon's harsh environment. On Earth, flora provide essential resources to help us live and thrive. We want to bring this benefit to our future habitats on the Moon. By participating in this challenge, you are helping to develop technologies and methods that will not only support space exploration but also have significant applications on Earth, particularly in improving agricultural practices in extreme environments.

What It Will Involve

The Lunar Life Survival Challenge invites you to choose your favourite flora (plant, fungus, lichen, algae or moss) and test it in conditions similar to those it would experience on a journey to the Moon. You will receive specific instructions to follow to simulate conditions like temperature cycles, and monitor flora health and growth. Key steps will include:

Preparation Select flora species and set up your testing environment using household items.

Temperature Cycling Subject flora to specified cold cycles using a household freezer.

Data Collection Document the health and growth of flora with photos and detailed notes.

Submission Upload your data to our online portal to contribute to the project’s research.

Get Involved

Join us in this exciting journey of discovery and innovation. Whether you are a student, professor, teacher, parent, or science enthusiast, your participation can make a difference. By testing the resilience of flora in lunar-like conditions, you will be contributing valuable data to the scientific community and help pave the way for sustainable living on the Moon and Earth.

Together, let's pioneer the future of lunar horticulture!

Join Now!

Background

The ALEPH Project

With a mission to place plants and seeds on the Moon by 2026, ALEPH represents a significant step forward in both space exploration and agricultural innovation. Supported by a grant of $3.6 million from the Australian Space Agency, along with contributions from industry and academic partners, this project leverages the expertise of leading institutions worldwide.

The ALEPH payload includes a pressurised, hermetically sealed chamber containing dormant seeds and non-invasive plants, equipped with sensors and a small monitoring system. This setup is designed to test a diverse combination of plant species to assess their viability and adaptability to the harsh conditions on the way to the Moon, and on the surface.

The Challenge of Space Travel for Plants and Seeds

Transporting plants and other flora to the Moon is challenging. During space travel, they must endure large temperature fluctuations and radiation exposure. Once on the lunar surface, flora must adapt to the Moon’s low gravity, and harsh temperatures, in addition to limited space and air inside their small capsule.

Successful growth of flora on the Moon would not only support future lunar missions by providing food, wellbeing benefits and some added oxygen, but also offer insights into sustainable agricultural practices in extreme environments on Earth.

The Need for Innovation

Innovation is at the heart of the ALEPH project. We are calling on citizen scientists, students, educators, and enthusiasts to contribute to this groundbreaking research. By participating in the Lunar Life Survival Challenge, you can help us discover species of flora capable of thriving in lunar conditions.

Conditions We Need to Test For

To ensure the success of growth on the Moon, we need to simulate and test the following conditions:

Temperature Resilience (essential):
- Plants must survive cycles in dry air between -19°C and 5°C, simulating the cold conditions they would experience on the way to the Moon. We recommend two cycles, with approximately 1-hour periods.
- In general, it is expected that these temperature fluctuations would occur whilst plants are in a dormant or desiccated (dry) state, for example, as seeds. However, this requirement is not essential, and you are welcome to test the boundaries of plants to tolerate these temperatures whilst in non-dormant states.
Health Monitoring (essential):
- Ability to assess plant health status via images or small sensors is crucial for ongoing monitoring.
- This means that plant status should be able to be established at least visually (e.g., by colour, visible growth, etc.)
Growth Indicators (essential):
- Observable growth, transformation, or movement is necessary to determine viability and adaptability.
Australian Connection (desirable):
- Preference for Australian native species or those naturally occurring in Australia, which may offer unique resilience traits.
Future Utility (desirable):
- Potential long-term benefits for human lunar surface operations, such as food production, oxygen generation, and ecological sustainability.

Bonus Conditions (Optional)

For those interested in pushing the boundaries further, we offer optional bonus conditions:

DIY Monitoring - Adding sensors to monitor growth.
Advanced Photography - Experiment with different lighting and camera conditions to capture flora health
Low Water Availability - Simulating drought conditions to assess plant adaptability to low water availability.

By participating in the Lunar Life Survival Challenge, you will be contributing to vital research that could shape the future of space exploration and sustainable agriculture. We look forward to seeing your favourite flora put to the test!

Materials Needed

The following materials are needed for this challenge:

Specimens (e.g., plants, lichen, algae, fungus, moss, etc.) in seed or other form
Airtight food containers rated for use in a freezer, preferably glass or freezer tolerant plastic
Standard household freezer
Thermometer (or other ability to determine temperature of freezer and room temperature)
Camera or smartphone for taking photos
Notebook or digital device for recording observations
Timer or clock
Labels (or masking tape) and markers
Paper towels
Water

Instructions - Setup

Step 1: Preparation

Select Plant Species:
- Choose species you believe can withstand the specified conditions, and that you can access.
- To ensure a good sample, it is generally suggested that you include multiple specimens from each species if possible. For example, if you plan to test radish and basil seeds, include at least 10-15 radish seeds, and at least 10-15 basil seeds.
Setup:
- Prepare one food container for each species. Ensure the container is clean by washing with dish detergent or in a dishwasher.
- Line the bottom of each container with paper towel
- Place the specimens into the container on top of the paper towel, ensuring that there is a separate container for each species. E.g., if you plan to test radish and basil seeds, place all radish seeds in one container and all basil seeds in a separate container.
- Label each container using masking tape and a pen to indicate the species that are inside each.

Step 2: Temperature Cycling

Initial Setup:
- Place the labeled containers with seeds in the freezer.
- Set the freezer temperature to its coldest setting (typically around -18°C).
Cold Cycle 1:
- Keep the specimens in the freezer for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, move the containers to a refrigerator set to 4°C.
- Keep the specimens in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
Cold Cycle 2:
- Place the specimens in the freezer for 1 hour.
- Remove from freezer and keep at room temperature for the remainder of experiment. Proceed to next step.

*Note: if it is not possible to meet the above temperatures or timeframes, or if you wish to experiment with different temperatures/timeframes, make sure to note down the times as well as the temperatures of the freezer, refrigerator and oven so that you can detail these in your submission.

Step 3: Introducing Water (Imbibition)

- Using a spray bottle or container with a spout, moisten seeds and the paper towel they are resting on. Ensure that the paper towel is moist but that there is not excess water pooling at the bottom of the container.
- Close containers to maintain consistent conditions inside.

Once your experiment is set up, follow the monitoring instructions to collect data and share your results with the project scientists.

Instructions - Monitoring

Step 4: Monitoring and Data Collection

Download and save a copy of the Lunar Life Survival Challenge Data Template.
- The above link is to a template, which cannot be edited, however, you can click File --> Make a copy, or File --> Download to create your own editable version of the template.
- Enter the relevant experiment details and initial observations for each species in the "Start of Experiment" section.
- There is a column for up to 10 species, and an additional "example" column at the start for reference.
- Some rows (hidden, in green) are automatically calculated based on the data you include in other cells. These do not need to be changed.
Photographs
- For photos of your experiment, please use one of the below formats (i.e., all three photos of each species should be in the same format for comparison):
  - - If using a clear container and plants are visible from the side/front, place your camera/smartphone directly in front of your specimens at a distance of 20cm, or
    - If you need to remove the lid in order to see the specimens, place your camera/smartphone directly above your specimens at a distance of 20cm.
- Take one photo per container. E.g., if you are only testing one species, all your specimens for this species will be in one container and you only need to take one of each of the below photos. If you are testing two species, contained in two containers, you will take two of each of the below photos - one per container.
- Day 1 Photo: Take a photo of your specimens in each of your containers at the start of your experiment (i.e., as soon as you have completed Step 3 above). Save your photo(/s) somewhere where you can easily find it for submission, ensuring it is clearly labelled. Submission file format will be: [species name]_[day 1]_[username].jpg. png files also acceptable.
- Mid-Experiment Photo: Take a photo(/s)s of your container(/s) at some point in the middle of your experiment, in the same format as you used for the Day 1 photo. A good time to do this is after a few of the specimens have revived/grown/germinated. Save your photo(/s) somewhere where you can easily find it for submission, ensuring it is clearly labelled. Submission file format will be: [species name]_[experiment day]_[username].jpg. png files also acceptable.
- Final Photo: Take a photo(/s) of your container(/s) at the end of your experiment when you have determined that data collection will cease, in the same format as you used for the previous two photos, . Save your photo(/s) somewhere where you can easily find it for submission, ensuring it is clearly labelled. Submission file format will be: [species name]_[experiment day]_[username].jpg. png files also acceptable.
Ongoing Monitoring:
- Monitor your specimens visually, looking out for early signs of revival/germination, and/or stress.
- At the first sign of revival/germination for each of the species you are testing, note down the time (days, hours from start of experiment) in the "Early in Experiment" section of your copy of the Lunar Life Survival Challenge Data Template.
Final data:
- Choose the end of your experiment: When to end your experiment will largely depend on your species and your own observation of the rate of revival/germination. Based on your understanding of the species you selected and their expected revival/germination times, end your experiment when you have determined that it is unlikely that specimens that have not revived/germinated will do so. If you are unsure how to estimate this, please reach out to us via the discussion board, as we have a number of experts who can assist.
  - For example, if you are testing radish seeds, which are expected to germinate anywhere from 3-10 days, you may choose to end the experiment after the 11th day. If most of your seeds germinated later in that period, you can extend this to 12 days to allow enough growth for more accurate data collection.
- Complete the "End of Experiment" section of your copy of the Lunar Life Survival Challenge Data Template.

Step 5: Data Submission

Prepare Your Submission:
- Ensure that you have saved each of your photos, along with your copy of the Lunar Life Survival Challenge Data Template.
- Reflect on your experiment and make sure that you have not missed any detail and/or observation.
Upload Data:
- Submit your experiment and data on the Submit page.
- The submission form will require the following:
  - Your details and/or your group's details (if participating as a group). These will be collected only for communication purposes relating to this challenge.
  - Your chosen username (this will be listed with shared data)
  - Details of your experiment
  - Upload of your copy of the Lunar Life Survival Challenge Data
  - Upload of photos of your experiment

If you would like to repeat your experiment, or test any other species, you may submit multiple times.

Step 6: Follow-Up

Leaderboard:
- Towards the end of the challenge period, a leaderboard will be displayed, showing the leading species based on collation of data gathered.
- Check the leaderboard to track your chosen species' progress and compare with other participants.
Engage:
- Stay engaged with the challenge community through project updates and announcements of future challenges.
- Share your experiences and learn from other participants.

Optional Add-on - DIY Monitoring

General Challenge Testing Protocol

Objective

Integrate simple electronics to monitor plant health and environmental conditions in real-time. This allows for precise data collection and analysis of the growing environment.

Note - if working with DIY electronics for the first time, ensure you follow manufacturer instructions and/or access support from your school/university or other expert.

Materials Needed

Arduino or Raspberry Pi (or equivalent)
Sensors (temperature, humidity, light, etc.)
Breadboard
Jumper wires.

*ensure electronics are kept away from any water added to containers with seeds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Assemble Electronics Set up your Arduino or Raspberry Pi with the necessary sensors. Ensure all connections are secure and functional.

Program the Device Write or download a program to log data such as temperature, humidity, and light levels at regular intervals. Test the program to ensure it works correctly.

Place Sensors Position sensors inside the airtight containers with the plants, making sure they do not interfere with the specimens. Secure the sensors in place if necessary.

Data Logging Record and download data regularly to track environmental conditions and plant responses over time. Use a consistent schedule for data collection .

Analyse Data Include sensor data in your final submission for enhanced analysis. Use the data to provide additional context to your observations and draw more accurate conclusions. .

Optional Add-on - Advanced Photography

General Challenge Testing Protocol

Objective

Enhance documentation quality for more detailed analysis. High-quality images can provide better insights into the condition and growth of plant specimens, allowing for more precise monitoring and comparison.

Materials Needed

DSLR camera or high-resolution smartphone camera
Tripod
Light source.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set Up Equipment Position your camera on a tripod to ensure stability and reduce motion blur.

Lighting Use consistent lighting to avoid shadows and ensure clarity. Natural light or a softbox can be ideal for even illumination.

Capture Photos Take high-resolution photos at each stage of the experiment to capture detailed images of plant specimens. Ensure close-up shots to highlight specific details.

Focus on Details Capture clear, close-up images of any growth, transformation, or movement in the plants. Pay attention to changes in colour, texture, and size.

Label and Organise Label photos with dates and times for accurate record-keeping and easier comparison over time. Organise them in a logical sequence to track the progression of changes.

Optional Add-on - Low Water Simulation

General Challenge Testing Protocol

Objective

Assess plant adaptability to drought-like conditions by reducing humidity. This can provide insights into how plants might cope with limited water resources on the Moon.

Materials Needed

Desiccant packets (silica gel)
Airtight containers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Environment After initial watering, add desiccant packets in the airtight container with the plant to absorb moisture and reduce humidity. Ensure the packets do not touch the plants.

Monitor Humidity Levels Regularly check the humidity inside the container using a hygrometer if available. Maintain a low-humidity environment consistently .

Observe Plant Response Monitor the plant for signs of drought stress, such as leaf curling, wilting, or slowed growth. Take note of how quickly these signs appear and their severity.

Record Observations Document the plant's condition regularly, noting any changes in health and growth patterns. Include dates and specific details of observations.

Report Findings Include your observations on how the plant copes with reduced humidity in your final report. Discuss any notable adaptations or signs of resilience.

Rather work offline? Download this page and instructions in this document:

Lunar Life Survival Challenge Booklet.pdf

Welcome Video

Clarification Forum

The below lists the discussions underway on our clarification forum. To view more or to ask a question about the challenge, visit the challenge Google Groups Page here.

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