Initial ideas

Idea 1: Bioprinted Multilayer Dynamic Material

• Layer 1(bottom):Iridescent layer

  DNA origami to create static nanostructure that can assemble into dynamic microstructures that create the iridescent layer

• Layer 2(middle): Pigment Layer

  Different pigments could be expressed in response to different conditions/stimuli

• Layer 3(Top): Melanin Layer

  Reversible proteins that can toggle between 2 states controlling how much melanin is expressed.This enables different degrees of light to pass through, therefore exposing a range of pigments and iridescence

Idea 2: Freeze dried personalized nutrition and flavorings for astronauts (Deep Space Food Challenge)

• Freeze dried cell free systems to produce micro, macro and phytonutrients + flavors and smells on demand

• Advantages:

  • High shelf life

  • Compact/easy to store

  • Customizable to each astronaut’s needs and preferences

  • Safety: Doesn’t require live organisms

  • Enhances the food experience + offers more variety