DigitalBlast Officially Launches Project ‘NOAH’ for the Construction of an Ecological Circulation Maintenance System on the Moon. Prototype Completed for Experiments on the International Space Station in 2024
May 17, 2022
DigitalBlast Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, CEO: Shingo Horiguchi, hereinafter referred to as DigitalBlast), which supports the revitalization of the space industry and the creation of new businesses in the space sector, announces the full-scale launch of Project ‘NOAH’, aimed at constructing an ecological circulation maintenance system centered on plant cultivation on the lunar surface. The gravity generation device ‘AMAZ’, which is positioned as the first step of this project, has already completed its prototype, and we are proceeding with ground experiments with the goal of starting experiments on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2024. The patent related to AMAZ is currently pending application.
Development Background
In recent years, manned space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis program, has been gaining momentum, and there is a growing awareness of the challenges of securing food and cultivating plants in space environments. While it has become clear that the microgravity environment of the International Space Station (ISS) has a significant impact on plant growth, the effects of low-gravity environments such as the moon and Mars on plant cultivation are not yet fully understood. In light of this situation, DigitalBlast will officially launch a project called ‘NOAH’, which focuses on plant cultivation on the lunar surface to construct an ‘ecological circulation maintenance system’.
About Project NOAH
With the human lunar exploration in mind, this project aims to create an environment on the moon where humanity can be self-sufficient. We will take steps to verify the impact of long-term plant cultivation in a low-gravity environment. The devices we develop will be provided as experimental environments for private companies and research institutions.
DigitalBlast has completed the prototype of the gravity generation device ‘AMAZ’, which is positioned as the first step of the project. We will proceed with ground experiments and aim to install and operate this device on the ISS in 2024
About the Gravity Generation Device AMAZ
This device is primarily intended for the study of plant physiology in space environments and lunar gravity. By rotating a part of the device, centrifugal force is used to replicate the moon’s gravity, which is one-sixth of Earth’s. In addition to replicating the moon’s one-sixth gravity, the device can simulate various gravitational environments by changing the rotation speed, allowing for simultaneous comparison. Through cultivation under diverse gravitational forces, we will obtain basic data on plant gravity responses. The cultivation targets are expected to be mosses and similar species.
Furthermore, the device name ‘AMAZ’ is derived from the Japanese mythological ‘creation of heaven and earth,’ signifying the beginning of the realization of plant cultivation on the moon.
Future Prospects
DigitalBlast plans to develop various experimental environments in this project. The second phase of NOAH, ‘TAMAKI,’ is planned to develop a plant cultivation device with a watering function. Aiming for implementation on the lunar surface, we will progressively conduct research and development necessary for the construction of an ecological circulation maintenance system, striving for a future where humanity can reside in space, including the moon and Mars.
About DigitalBlast, Inc.
DigitalBlast is on a mission to redefine the value of space with its motto, “Make Space Valuable.” To enhance the worth of Japan’s space sector, it’s crucial to develop a variety of revenue streams that extend beyond BtoG (business-to-government) transactions. Boasting a diverse team skilled in business strategy, digital technology, and promotion, we take pride in our comprehensive solutions. Our goal is to expand our clients’ revenue options and forge new value within the space industry.
Company Name: DigitalBlast Inc.
Office: Jinbocho mitsui building 19F,1-105 Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0051, Japan
Representative: Shingo Horiguchi (CEO)
Established: December 2018
Website: https://digitalblast.co.jp/
Business Content: Planning, design, and support for corporate transformation, development and support of digital technology, integrated marketing services, digital marketing services, internet advertising services, video production and distribution.