The Sad Tale of Biosphere 2

Despite its setbacks, the story of Biosphere 2 can get us  thinking about the importance of wonder again. 

"Biosphere 2 is the world's largest controlled environment dedicated to understanding the impacts of climate change. Our researchers have created the unique biomes to help answer the most complex questions of today and tomorrow about sustainability, conservation, and humanity's impact on Biosphere 1 – our own Earth."

-University of Arizona Research Team

In the early 1990s, a group of dreamer scientists embarked on an ambitious project that would push the boundaries of scientific exploration and innovation. Biosphere 2, a massive enclosed ecosystem spanning over three acres, was designed to mimic Earth's biosphere and serve as a self-sustained environment for human habitation. The ultimate goal of this groundbreaking experiment was to explore the possibility of creating self-sufficient habitats for future space exploration on Mars or the moon.

"Designing an artificial ecosystem that captures the essential essence of the original biosphere on Earth was much like playing Noah, choosing which organisms could be assembled into a stable, self-sustaining network and then bottled in an enclosed environment."
-Jane Poynter

The Biosphere 2 experiment was a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The scientists involved in the project dreamed of creating a miniature version of Earth, complete with diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, deserts, and even an ocean. By studying the intricate interactions between these ecosystems and the human inhabitants, they hoped to gain valuable insights into the complex web of life that sustains our planet.

It's clear that the experiment holds important relevance to today's world of scientific exploration and innovation. The successes and failures of the project provide a wealth of knowledge that can guide future endeavours in space exploration and sustainable living. Some of the innovations that worked well during the experiment include the use of advanced recycling systems, efficient food production techniques, and the cultivation of diverse plants. 

Despite the Biosphere 2 experiment's setbacks, such as fluctuating oxygen levels and challenges in maintaining a balanced ecosystem, these obstacles provided excellent opportunities to learn about the challenges of surviving in a closed system. The scientists involved in the project demonstrated remarkable resilience and a growth mindset, adapting to the challenges and finding innovative solutions under tight budgets and short timelines. A lesson that all students, regardless of age, can benefit from. 

One of the most significant hurdles during the experiment was the unexpected drop in oxygen levels. Initially designed as a completely sealed environment, Biosphere 2 began experiencing dangerously low oxygen levels. This was due to several unforeseen factors, such as the concrete structure absorbing oxygen and the overgrowth of soil microbes consuming oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. Engineers injected supplemental oxygen into the facility, a controversial move because it compromised the integrity of the closed system but was crucial for the safety of the inhabitants. Additionally, they addressed the problem of oxygen absorption by sealing the concrete surfaces within the facility, and reacting with the air to reduce oxygen levels. Finally, the facility's microbiome adjustments were made to improve the carbon dioxide-to-oxygen ratio. 

Many in the public mocked this move as a giant failure, showing that Biosphere 2 was unsustainable. Considering the scope and scale of the project, many scientists felt that this was an unforeseen issue and actually provided interesting insight into managing a complex system for future missions. The failure was a powerful lesson for aspiring scientists and innovators, reminding them that setbacks are an integral part of the scientific process and that success often lies in the ability to learn from failures and keep pushing forward.

Looking towards the future, the potential applications of artificial intelligence in biosphere initiatives and space colonization are immense. AI-powered systems could assist in monitoring and regulating the complex ecosystems within enclosed habitats, optimizing resource management, and even predicting potential issues before they arise. Moreover, AI could play a crucial role in helping humans survive and thrive on Mars or other planets, by analyzing data, providing decision support, and facilitating communication with Earth-based teams.

The Biosphere 2 experiment not only advanced scientific understanding but also captured the imagination of the general public. It sparked a renewed interest in understanding our Earth, the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystems, and the possibilities of exploring other planets. In the spirit of Carl Sagan's Cosmos, which popularized the universe for the masses, Biosphere 2 brought the wonders of science and the potential for human exploration to the forefront of public consciousness.

As Carl Sagan famously said, "*Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.*" This quote encapsulates the essence of scientific exploration and the boundless potential for discovery. Biosphere 2 embodies this spirit of curiosity and the drive to push the limits of human knowledge. It serves as a reminder that humans are naturally ambitious and innovative. Many of the great discoveries and innovations that benefit us today are the result of dreamy scientists whose ideas were often dismissed outright. 

For educators, the Biosphere 2 experiment provides a rich source of inspiration for fostering an innovation mindset in students. By incorporating hands-on, inquiry-based learning approaches, such as design thinking, genius hour and innovation fairs, teachers can encourage students to think creatively, solve problems, and embrace the challenges that come with scientific exploration. By exposing students to the stories of the Biosphere 2 scientists and their achievements, educators can ignite a passion for science and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Reflecting on the legacy of Biosphere 2, it is clear that its impact extends far beyond the scientific community. It stands as a symbol of human ingenuity, resilience, and the boundless potential for exploration and discovery. By drawing inspiration from this remarkable experiment, we can cultivate a culture of innovation and encourage future generations to dream big, take risks, and push the boundaries of what is possible.

The Biosphere 2 experiment serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of scientific exploration and the potential for human innovation. As we face the challenges of the future, from climate change to space exploration, it is important to remember the lessons learned from Biosphere 2 and foster an innovation mindset in the next generation of scientists and problem-solvers. Together, we can unlock the incredible possibilities that await us and make the dreams of yesterday the realities of tomorrow.