Advancing sustainable space solutions through microalgae research
Extremo Technologies has successfully completed its incubation at ESA BIC Poland. The company focuses on utilizing unique microalgae in its in-house designed products to support the future of life in space and on Earth. During the incubation period, Extremo Technologies developed an innovative microalgae bio-panel designed to enhance crewed space missions through effective CO2 sequestration and O2 production. This product contributes to closed-loop systems, autonomy, and the circular economy while also improving users’ well-being.
Key Achievements During Incubation
Participation in Poland’s First Technological and Scientific Mission to the ISS
One of the most significant milestones for Extremo Technologies was being selected to fly an experiment as part of Poland’s first technological and scientific mission to the International Space Station (ISS) – IGNIS. The experiment, set to be launched soon with a Polish astronaut, will investigate the survival and adaptability of extremophilic volcanic microalgae in space conditions.
This research is crucial for future space missions and applications in closed-loop systems and space medicine. The project continues the company’s work on bioregenerative oxygen production in space, evaluating oxygen generation by volcanic microalgae and conducting genetic analysis in microgravity conditions.
Partner Support and Strategic Collaborations
The incubation period provided crucial support from multiple partners. Laboratory work, research, prototyping, and intellectual property protection were key focus areas. Extremo Technologies collaborated with Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, particularly the Faculty of Environmental Engineering, for research support. Legal guidance was provided by ESA BIC Poland’s partner Osborne Clarke, business support came from Foundation For Technology Entrepreneurship and ABGi Poland, while Planet Partners helped with brand communication.
Advancing Product Development and Securing Intellectual Property
Participation in ESA BIC Poland enabled Extremo Technologies to enhance its product’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL). The startup conducted extensive research, prototyping, and applied for a patent. A major achievement was securing a place in the Axiom 4 mission to conduct experiments on the ISS. Over the year-long incubation, Extremo Technologies actively engaged in ESA’s network events, gaining valuable insights and forging essential connections.
Market Expansion and Global Outreach
Extremo Technologies significantly expanded its market presence through active participation in industry events across Europe and the USA. These engagements helped establish critical global partnerships, laying the foundation for future expansion. To safeguard its innovation, the company has applied for both Polish and international patents.
Recognition and Competitions
The startup has gained notable recognition, becoming a finalist in multiple prestigious competitions:
- Human in Space Challenge Finalists – Presentation and booth at the ASCEND conference, Las Vegas, October 2023
- Finalists of NEVADA NAP NCBR to scale the company to US market, May 2024
- Finalists of AKCES NCBR – awaiting final results
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Extremo Technologies aims to implement pilot projects in office interiors, demonstrating the effectiveness of its innovative space-based air purification technology. The company is also actively working on securing funding to enhance production capabilities and further its space research. Key upcoming goals include testing the bio-panel for private space stations and exploring its application in long-term space missions.
With the successful completion of incubation at ESA BIC Poland, Extremo Technologies is well-positioned to drive innovation in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments, ensuring a sustainable and autonomous future for space missions and beyond.
