Texas A&M University Develops Autonomous Construction for Mars Using Synthetic Lichens

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Texas A&M University (TAMU), led by Dr. Congrui Grace Jin, have pioneered a method for autonomous construction on Mars using synthetic lichens. This innovative approach addresses the significant challenges of building structures on the Red Planet, where transporting construction materials from Earth is impractical. The study, funded by NASA's Innovative Advanced Concepts program, highlights the potential for utilizing Martian regolith—composed of dust, sand, and rocks—to create buildings and other structures through bio-manufactured materials.

According to Dr. Jin, a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University and lead author of the study published in the Journal of Manufacturing Science and Engineering in June 2025, "We can build a synthetic community by mimicking natural lichens. We've developed a way to create biomaterials that glue Martian regolith particles into structures. Then, through 3D printing, a wide range of structures can be fabricated, such as buildings, houses, and furniture."

The concept of utilizing local resources for extraterrestrial construction is not new; however, existing methods often require significant human intervention, which is not feasible in the harsh environment of Mars. Previous studies have explored various bonding techniques for regolith, including magnesium-based and sulfur-based methods, but these approaches necessitate human oversight or external nutrient supplies, making them impractical for Mars colonization.

In contrast, Dr. Jin's research introduces a fully autonomous system that does not require external nutrient inputs. This system is built on a synthetic community of heterotrophic filamentous fungi and photoautotrophic diazotrophic cyanobacteria. The fungi serve as bonding material producers, promoting biomineral production and enhancing the survival of the cyanobacteria, which fix carbon dioxide and nitrogen from the Martian atmosphere. Together, these organisms create a self-sustaining environment capable of building structures with only Martian regolith simulant, light, air, and an inorganic liquid medium.

"The potential of this self-growing technology in enabling long-term extraterrestrial exploration and colonization is significant," states Dr. Jin. As the research progresses, the next phase involves developing regolith ink for 3D printing bio-structures, which could revolutionize the way humanity approaches construction on other planets.

The implications of this research extend beyond Mars. As noted by Dr. Emma Carter, an expert in astrobiology at the University of California, Berkeley, "This technology could pave the way for sustainable living conditions on Mars and potentially other celestial bodies, making it a critical step towards human colonization of space."

Moreover, the findings align with NASA's broader vision for exploring and potentially colonizing Mars, as outlined in their long-term plans for human missions to the planet. Dr. Robert Zubrin, founder of the Mars Society, emphasizes that such innovations are essential for reducing the logistical burdens of space colonization. "Using in-situ resources is not just a smart choice; it is the only viable path forward for sustainable human presence beyond Earth," he asserts.

In summary, the research conducted by Texas A&M University marks a transformative step in extraterrestrial construction techniques. By harnessing the capabilities of synthetic lichens, researchers are not only addressing the immediate challenges of Martian habitation but are also setting the stage for a future where humanity may one day thrive on other planets. As this technology advances, it may alter our understanding of construction and sustainability in the harshest environments known to humanity.