Title:
Quails in space: a new model to study physiological effects of space radiation for safe exploration and food security for Lunar Gateway
Agreement Number:
25HLSRM9
Agreement Value:
$180,000.00
Agreement Date:
Aug 19, 2025 - Jul 15, 2027
Description:
Space exploration radiation risks remain a major challenge for long-duration missions. In collaboration with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, the research team will develop a space radiation protocol simulating heavily shielded environment of Lunar habitats predicted to exhibit high levels of neutron radiation. They propose to use quail (Coturnix coturnix) as a novel non-human research model and to assess the effects of gamma and neutron radiation on skeletal, calcium homeostasis and cardiovascular systems. Similar to humans and rodents, spaceflight experiments with quail eggs showed altered calcium homeostasis and bone loss, demonstrating that quail egg is a valid research model to study fundamental biological questions relevant to spaceflight risks to humans. Moreover, quail meat and eggs have nutritional value and are potentially useful as sustainable food supply for Lunar bases. These studies will pave the way for assessing countermeasures necessary to eliminate the identified risks of the chronic exposure to radiation relevant to Lunar exploration.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Edmonton, Alberta, CA T5J 4P6
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q2-00090
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
The Governors of the University of Alberta
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.