Grape Microbiota
CSS was selected to develop an experiment payload to examine the effect of microgravity throughout the various stages of wine fermentation.
CSS is at the forefront of life sciences R&D that support both Earth and Space science. We were selected to develop an experiment payload to examine the effect of microgravity throughout the various stages of fermentation. The viticulture, or winemaking, industry has been selectively growing vine cultivars with different traits for millennia. The micro flora that coexists with the plant and fruit may be one of the key factors that influence the final product. To better understand the role and impact of microbes, a key approach would be to observe and measure the potential phenotypic and genotypic differences of the micro flora when they are exposed to a unique and/or stressful environment. Use of the ISS provides a unique environmental stressor consistently for microbial activity to occur in the grape juice and demonstrate micro flora expression throughout the critical stages of fermentation. This research can be targeted toward improving universal crop production characteristics including yield, size, nutrition, etc. for a positive impact for use in space exploration as well as Earth application.
The primary objective of this investigation was to induce fermentation in microgravity conditions representing a unique environmental stressor to important microbes responsible for fermentation. We hypothesized that the growth kinetics would trend differently amongst the existing populations of microbes native to the grapes, and that different microbial types would proliferate and become the dominant species in the fermenting juices when exposed to environmental stressors, and that these differences in expression would have an impact on various elements of grape juice as it ferments.
Additional Projects
Biogeographic Assessment of the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI)
CSS compiled and visualized data showing the distribution of habitats and marine organisms, to establish a baseline for assessing and monitoring potential environmental impacts from renewable energy projects.
Radiation Decontamination Application for EPA
CSS served as the bridge between computer developers and the scientific community during the creation of a Radiation Decontamination application.
Superfund Program Removal Action Support
CSS’ On-Site Analytical Support Accelerates Site Cleanup and Restoration.
Service Areas
Human Health Risk Assessment
We help advance the understanding of chemical effects on people and the environment.
Satellite Science & Environmental Intelligence
Helping create a more environmentally sustainable, weather-ready, and secure nation through application of earth observation data
Environmental Resource Assessment & Management
We apply science to address challenges affecting the nation’s natural resources.
Safety, Health, & Environmental Compliance
We provide our clients with tools to protect their workforce, the public, and the environment.
Facilities Operations & Maintenance
We understand your facility support needs and deliver customized solutions.
Space Science Application Support & Operations
We deliver scientific support to advance our clients’ research goals.
Get in touch
Contact us to learn more about our projects, capabilities, solutions, and service offerings.