DigitalBlast begins joint research with Professor Ichiro Karahara and Associate Professor Hiroyuki Kamachi’s research group at Toyama University. Ground adaptability tests are to be conducted for moss cultivation experiments in the gravity generation device AMAZ.
July 13, 2022
DigitalBlast Inc. (Headquarters: Chiyoda, Tokyo, CEO: Shingo Horiguchi, hereafter referred to as DigitalBlast), which supports the revitalization of the space industry and the creation of new businesses in the space sector, has announced the commencement of joint research with the research group of Professor Ichiro Karahara and Associate Professor Hiroyuki Kamachi from the Department of Science, Academic Research Division of the National University Corporation Toyama University (Location: Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture, President: Shigeru Saito, hereafter referred to as Toyama University). The research is on the ground compatibility tests of moss cultivation using the gravity generation device AMAZ.
Background of the Joint Research:
In recent years, there has been growing excitement around manned space exploration, including NASA’s Artemis program, and an increased awareness of the challenges associated with securing food and cultivating plants in space environments. While it has become clear that the microgravity environment of the International Space Station (ISS) significantly affects plant growth, the impact of low-gravity environments, such as those on the moon or Mars, on plant cultivation is not yet fully understood. In light of this, DigitalBlast has launched Project NOAH aimed at establishing an ecological circulation maintenance system on the moon’s surface. As the first step of the project, they have developed the gravity generation device AMAZ, which generates one-sixth of Earth’s gravity, the same as that on the moon’s surface, and are aiming for its installation and operation on the ISS in 2024.
Therefore, with the cooperation of Professor Ichiro Karahara and Associate Professor Hiroyuki Kamachi from Toyama University, who have experience in plant experiments in space, ground compatibility tests of the device will be conducted in anticipation of space experiments.
Summary of the Joint Research:
The joint research with Professor Ichiro Karahara and Associate Professor Hiroyuki Kamachi from Toyama University, who have experience and knowledge in plant experiments on the ISS, will conduct ground compatibility tests of moss cultivation using the completed prototype of the gravity generation device AMAZ. Based on the data obtained from the tests, the specifications of the device will be adjusted, and the device will be optimized for space experiments.
About the Gravity Generation Device AMAZ:
The device is primarily aimed at studying plant physiology in space environments and lunar gravity. By rotating a part of the device, centrifugal force is used to replicate one-sixth of Earth’s gravity, the same as that on the moon’s surface. The gravity generated can replicate various gravitational environments by changing the rotation speed, allowing for simultaneous comparison. Fundamental data on plant gravity response will be obtained through cultivation under diverse gravitational conditions. Mosses and similar plants are envisioned as cultivation targets.
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.