Faculty from the 47 public HBCUs joined TMCF in identifying competitive student candidates from their universities TMCF’s Science Advisory Committee conducted a rigorous review of all candidates and selected the winners.
The following students were awarded individual grants of $5,000 to implement their research:
Djuana Grant, Alabama A&M University – Production of Oxygen by Chroogloecysis siderophila Using Mars Lunar Surface Atmosphere: In this study, the awardee will design a simple, sustainable, and natural carbon sequestration solution using Chroogloeocystis siderophila. Thus, will create a photo bioreactor that uses photosynthesis to grow algae by passing carbon dioxide over large membranes, placed vertically to save space. The carbon dioxide concentration will simulate the Luna atmosphere of Mars. The carbon dioxide is broken down by the Chroogloeocystis siderophila. Nitrogen and clean oxygen are released back into the atmosphere.
Lumumba Obika, Tuskegee University – Solid-Solid Vacuum Regolith Heat-Exchanger for Oxygen Production: This Solid –solid Vacuum Regolith Heat-Exchanger (SVRHE) Phase-
Brandon Williams, Tuskegee University – Low Density Blend Regolith Simulants to Mimic Effects of Lunar Gravity: This project will demonstrate a protocol for making and characterizing new low-density lunar regolith simulants which can mimic quasistatic effects of reduced lunar gravity without utilization of NASA’s C-9 aircraft or highly constrained drop tower tests.
Aligned with the nation’s priorities, TMCF is committed to working with our member universities to continue to offer leadership opportunities for students to become the next generation of science and technology leaders.
