Abstract EANA2025-168

HALO Technologies is a German-based startup dedicated to advancing astrobiology and life sciences by developing modular research platforms that simulate the unique and extreme conditions found in space and on other planetary bodies. Our mission is to provide scientists with accessible, ground-based tools that replicate key aspects of the space environment, thus reducing the dependency on costly and logistically demanding spaceflight missions.

The HALO platform is a compact and mobile system capable of delivering up to 60 seconds of high-quality microgravity via controlled free-fall. Unlike traditional methods such as parabolic flights or drop towers, HALO offers a scalable and flexible alternative that supports high-throughput experimentation and rapid iteration. This makes it particularly well-suited for the testing of biological samples, prebiotic chemistry, microbial activity, and life-detection instrumentation. In addition to microgravity, HALO platforms can replicate a variety of environmental extremes, including reduced atmospheric pressure, radiation exposure, and planetary atmospheres such as that of Mars. This versatility enables researchers to systematically investigate the behavior of life and biomolecules under conditions relevant to astrobiological exploration.

In alignment with the EANA 2025 theme, "Astrobiology: From the Field to the Labs and into Space", HALO platforms serve as a bridge across the entire research and development chain. In planetary analog field campaigns, our mobile units can be deployed directly on-site to conduct experiments under natural environmental stressors, providing valuable data in real-world conditions. In laboratory settings, HALO enables fine-tuned simulations of microgravity and other stress environments, supporting the refinement of experimental protocols and the exploration of underlying biophysical processes. For space mission preparation, HALO functions as a risk-reduction and validation platform, helping to raise the Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) of critical instrumentation and methodologies. This accelerates the path toward flight readiness and increases the scientific return of future space-based experiments on platforms such as the International Space Station, lunar landers, or planetary orbiters.

HALO Technologies collaborates with universities, research institutes, and space agencies across Europe. We place particular emphasis on supporting early-career researchers by providing access to our experimental infrastructure, offering tailored guidance, and engaging in the co-development of mission concepts. In doing so, we aim to foster a vibrant, interdisciplinary community at the interface of life sciences, space engineering, and planetary exploration.

At EANA 2025, HALO will present its latest technological developments and share insights from recent biological and technological payloads tested on our platforms. We invite the astrobiology community to explore opportunities for collaboration and co-design of future analog missions, laboratory campaigns, and spaceflight experiments.