Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Natalie Brattain, Senior Chloe Nissen, Junior Kylie Nager Peter Ulrich Enoch Tonkine, Freshman
Lead Presenter's Name
Natalie Brattain
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Amber Paul
Abstract
The Tardigrade Bio-ExplorAtion Reproduction Research Payload (tBEARR) is an external International Space Station (ISS) standardized laboratory payload module mission under development by the Embry-Riddle Orbital Research Association (ERORA), an undergraduate research organization at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach, Florida. As a club-driven mission, tBEARR provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience across all phases of space research, including payload design, biological experimentation, systems integration, and mission operations. The mission is supported by a biology research team focused on stress-response biology, experimental design, and biological validation throughout ground testing, high-altitude balloon flights, and orbital operations. The primary objective of tBEARR is to investigate the effects of ultraviolet and cosmic radiation on tardigrade reproductive cycles in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). Tardigrades are microscopic extremophiles known for their exceptional tolerance to environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, pressure variations, hypoxia, and prolonged desiccation. Despite their demonstrated survivability in space, the long-term effects of radiation exposure on tardigrade reproduction remain poorly understood. We hypothesize that prolonged exposure to the space radiation environment will measurably alter tardigrade reproductive rates. To validate flight hardware, life-support systems, and biological containment prior to orbital deployment, tBEARR will conduct a high-altitude balloon flight in June 2026. This suborbital test will expose the payload to relevant thermal, pressure, and radiation conditions, serving as a risk-reduction and systems verification milestone. Results from the tBEARR mission have the potential to inform the development of radiation-resilient technologies, including bio-inspired radiation hardening for spacecraft electronics, improved resilience in plant cells for space-based agriculture, and cellular adaptation strategies to mitigate radiation risks to humans during long-duration space missions.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Included in
Developmental Biology Commons, Space Habitation and Life Support Commons, Zoology Commons
Tardigrade Bio-ExplorAtion Reproduction Research Payload
The Tardigrade Bio-ExplorAtion Reproduction Research Payload (tBEARR) is an external International Space Station (ISS) standardized laboratory payload module mission under development by the Embry-Riddle Orbital Research Association (ERORA), an undergraduate research organization at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Daytona Beach, Florida. As a club-driven mission, tBEARR provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience across all phases of space research, including payload design, biological experimentation, systems integration, and mission operations. The mission is supported by a biology research team focused on stress-response biology, experimental design, and biological validation throughout ground testing, high-altitude balloon flights, and orbital operations. The primary objective of tBEARR is to investigate the effects of ultraviolet and cosmic radiation on tardigrade reproductive cycles in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). Tardigrades are microscopic extremophiles known for their exceptional tolerance to environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures, pressure variations, hypoxia, and prolonged desiccation. Despite their demonstrated survivability in space, the long-term effects of radiation exposure on tardigrade reproduction remain poorly understood. We hypothesize that prolonged exposure to the space radiation environment will measurably alter tardigrade reproductive rates. To validate flight hardware, life-support systems, and biological containment prior to orbital deployment, tBEARR will conduct a high-altitude balloon flight in June 2026. This suborbital test will expose the payload to relevant thermal, pressure, and radiation conditions, serving as a risk-reduction and systems verification milestone. Results from the tBEARR mission have the potential to inform the development of radiation-resilient technologies, including bio-inspired radiation hardening for spacecraft electronics, improved resilience in plant cells for space-based agriculture, and cellular adaptation strategies to mitigate radiation risks to humans during long-duration space missions.