06 November 2025

For the first time among the three previous UniSat nanosatellite launches, a nanosatellite ascended into the stratosphere to an altitude of 27 kilometers.

The launch participants were divided into two teams, and each conducted its own scientific experiment, the results of which were presented yesterday.

🧬 Team Pixie launched a nanosatellite carrying DNA samples (from banana and kiwi), yeast cultures, mealworms, and several control materials (iodine, graphite, silica gel, etc.). Despite partial telemetry and sensor failures, the experiment confirmed the stability of DNA and the activity of yeast after the flight, while the mealworms did not survive—likely due to overheating. No pH changes or signs of radiation exposure were detected. The mission showed that short-term biological changes in the stratosphere are minimal, but future launches require improved thermal control and sensor redundancy to ensure reliability.

🥚 Team Space Chicks launched a nanosatellite carrying two quail eggs and biological samples—fungal spores treated with different substances and mold cultures in both dry and moist conditions. One egg was placed in a 3D-printed grid to test the structural strength, and the other in foam material to study protein changes under low pressure, radiation, and extreme temperatures. After the flight, the first egg remained intact, confirming the reliability of the construction, while the second exhibited visible texture and color changes in the egg white, indicating protein denaturation. The mold samples successfully germinated, showing no significant differences between dry and moist cultures. The experiment demonstrated the resilience of biological systems to the extreme conditions of the stratosphere (temperature fluctuations, radiation, mechanical stress) and highlighted the need for improved thermal insulation and better control of biological samples in future missions.