Orbital biomanufacturing: the key to space resiliency, operational persistence, and ethical sustainability
Abstract
Space-based biomanufacturing has historically focused on long-duration crewed and exploration missions, but its greater potential lies in supporting in-space logistics, manufacturing, and servicing in Earth orbit. This article provides a strategic perspective on how shifting investments, policy, and R&D to orbital biomanufacturing could revolutionize defense, commercial, and civil sectors by enhancing supply chain resiliency, operational flexibility, ethical debris management, and commercial viability in Earth orbit.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Space exploration and regulation
Bacillus and Francisella bacterial research
Spaceflight effects on biology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- npj Microgravity
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 12
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 27 February 2026
- Language
- EN