The Chiba Institute of Technology Planetary Exploration Research Center is a facility that studies the origin and evolution of the universe, planets, and life, which are the biggest issues in space science.In addition to observing planets and analyzing planetary exploration data, we are working on the development of cutting-edge science and technology, such as the development and manufacture of planetary explorers to ensure reliable results and safety and carry out space activities.

　The experiment conducted this time is a microbial collection experiment "biopause project" in the stratosphere of the earth's atmosphere at an altitude of about 11 to 50 km.The distribution of microorganisms in the upper atmosphere (stratified area, mesosphere) is very important for understanding what the upper end "biopause" of the earth's biosphere is, and microorganisms and viruses enter the earth from space. It is a great clue to know the movement of living things between the earth and the universe, such as whether the living things of the earth can go out to the space.

　In this project, after raising the balloon equipped with the sampling device developed for the balloon experiment to an altitude of 30 to 40 km, the balloon and the sampling device are separated.When the sampling device descends with a parachute, the microorganisms in the atmosphere that pass through the inside are collided with the sampling plate and captured.With this method, it is possible to prevent contamination by microorganisms attached to the balloon.

　The experiment was conducted at the Taiki Aerospace Experiment Station (Taiki-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido) on June 2016, 6, using the flight opportunity provided by the JAXA Institute of Space and Astronautical Science.Currently, we are working on the initial analysis of the collected microbial samples.