Ilya Chekh, renowned for his contributions to prosthetic innovations at “Motorica,” has embarked on a new venture by establishing the “Frontiers of Science” guild. This organization is set to tackle ambitious projects that bridge space exploration and advanced scientific research.
Bioreactor Development for Lunar Stations
One of the guild’s flagship projects is the creation of a bioreactor designed for closed-loop life support systems in prospective lunar bases. This technology is crucial for sustaining human life during extended lunar missions by autonomously regenerating air and water. The project is a collaboration with the Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences and is slated to commence in the first quarter of 2025, with an anticipated completion timeline of three to five years.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to establish permanent research facilities on the Moon. For instance, the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), a collaborative project between China and Russia, aims to build a comprehensive scientific experiment base capable of long-term autonomous operation. The ILRS is expected to be constructed in phases, with a basic station targeted for completion by 2035.
Laser Complex at Kislovodsk Mountain Observatory
In partnership with the P.K. Sternberg State Astronomical Institute of Moscow State University, the guild plans to install a laser complex at the Kislovodsk Mountain Observatory. This facility will facilitate lunar ranging and gravitational wave research, contributing to advancements in coordinate-time and navigation support systems.
Gravitational wave observatories, such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the United States, have revolutionized our understanding of cosmic events by detecting ripples in spacetime caused by massive celestial occurrences like black hole mergers. The establishment of a laser complex in Kislovodsk signifies Russia’s commitment to contributing to this cutting-edge field of astrophysics.
The endeavors spearheaded by the “Frontiers of Science” guild under Ilya Chekh’s leadership exemplify a strategic fusion of space exploration and advanced scientific research. By developing bioreactors for lunar life support and enhancing gravitational wave detection capabilities, these projects not only bolster technological innovation but also position Russia at the forefront of space science and exploration.