Hallym University Professor Park Chanhum's Team Wins Grand Prize at Korea Aerospace Administration's "Space Hackathon Competition"

Nano-Bio Regenerative Medicine Research Institute Wins in Picosatellite Mission Idea Category
Proposes World's First Real-Time On-Orbit Genetic Analysis System

On November 27, Kim Kihyun, Lee Cheolhee, and Son Yusang, integrated master's and doctoral course students and researchers from the team led by Professor Park Chanhum of the Nano-Bio Regenerative Medicine Research Institute at Hallym University (Park Chanhum is also affiliated with the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Hallym University Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital), won the grand prize in the category of "Picosatellite Mission Idea" at the "Space Hackathon Competition" hosted by the Korea Aerospace Administration.

From the left, Kim Kihyun, a combined master's and doctoral student, and researcher Lee Cheolhee from the research team led by Professor Park Chanhum, the award recipient. Provided by Hallym University

The Space Hackathon Competition is an event organized by the Korea Aerospace Administration to promote the use of satellite information, encourage the convergence of satellite data and AI, and discover next-generation aerospace talent. This year, 284 participants from 114 teams, including university students and startup professionals, took part. Out of these, 75 individuals from 30 teams advanced to the finals, where they faced fierce competition.

The competition was divided into three categories: ▲ Satellite Big Data Utilization Ideas ▲ Satellite-Based Business Models ▲ Picosatellite Mission Ideas. Participants selected their own topics within these categories.

Professor Park Chanhum's team presented a study titled "Real-Time On-Orbit In-Situ PCR System in Microgravity Environments" in the Picosatellite Mission Idea category. This research focuses on developing an "on-orbit in-situ PCR system" that enables real-time genetic analysis in space by automating the entire process-from gene extraction and PCR amplification to fluorescence detection and ground transmission-aboard a CubeSat (a type of small autonomous satellite).

This system is designed to automatically prepare and analyze Candida samples in space. The processes of dissolving and mixing the samples are fully automated, and the use of a compact structure allows sample movement without the need for a separate pump. Additionally, a precise temperature control device inside the satellite ensures the stable execution of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) experiments. The analyzed data is transmitted to the ground in real time.

Previously, most space biotechnology research involved collecting samples on the International Space Station (ISS) and bringing them back to Earth for analysis. However, during the return process, genetic signals could be altered due to exposure to radiation, vibration, and temperature changes, and the analysis could take several weeks, making real-time response difficult. This highlighted the need for technology capable of immediate on-site analysis in space.

The aim of this research is to overcome the limitations of conventional methods and establish a world-class on-site analysis platform that can instantly detect and monitor genetic changes and infection risks in living organisms exposed to microgravity and radiation in space.

Professor Park Chanhum stated, "Candida, the microorganism selected as our research target, has been reported to become more pathogenic in space environments. We plan to continue scientific validation by comparing our results with future ISS experiments. The technology we have developed enables research on highly pathogenic bacteria that cannot be conducted on the ISS, and it can be expanded into a low-cost, repeatable experimental platform based on small autonomous satellites. We expect this will make a meaningful contribution to space bio-research and the development of a private biotechnology ecosystem."