Harnessing Bacteria for Laser-Powered Energy: A Breakthrough for Space Exploration 

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Scientists are developing an innovative technology that uses photosynthetic bacteria to convert sunlight into laser beams, a method that could revolutionise energy generation in space and on Earth. This groundbreaking approach draws inspiration from natural photosynthesis, where plants and bacteria turn sunlight into chemical energy. By leveraging bacteria’s highly efficient light-harvesting antennae, researchers aim to amplify sunlight and create a sustainable power source for space missions and terrestrial applications. 

A Sustainable Solution for Space Missions 

The international project, called APACE, involves researchers from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and other institutions. It focuses on harnessing the natural efficiency of bacteria that thrive in low-light environments. These organisms possess specialised molecular structures capable of capturing and channelling almost every photon of light, making them exceptional solar collectors. 

The researchers plan to extract these structures and integrate them into laser systems. Unlike traditional solar panels, which rely on electronic components, this technology would use biological materials that could be regrown in space. This self-sustaining design eliminates the need to send replacement parts from Earth, addressing a significant challenge in long-term space missions. 

Professor Erik Gauger, a lead scientist on the project, noted that the bacteria’s ability to amplify sunlight into laser beams without electronic components represents a significant advancement in sustainable space power. He emphasised the potential for this innovation to support lunar bases, Mars missions, and even wireless energy transmission back to Earth. 

Advancing Clean Energy on Earth 

Beyond space exploration, the researchers see potential for these lasers to contribute to clean energy technology on Earth. Using biological and artificial light-harvesting systems, the team aims to create prototype lasers within three years. These lasers could eventually provide wireless, sustainable energy solutions, reducing dependency on conventional power sources. 

This technology, which merges biological ingenuity with cutting-edge photonics, promises to revolutionise both space exploration and renewable energy on Earth. By repurposing nature’s most efficient solar collectors, the project offers a glimpse into a future where energy generation is both innovative and sustainable.