SpaceBorn United: Space IVF and Embryo Research Under Partial Gravity

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Long-duration human presence beyond Earth raises questions that extend beyond propulsion, habitats, or life support systems. One of the least explored challenges concerns reproduction in space and the biological effects of radiation and altered gravity conditions on early embryo development. While human spaceflight has advanced significantly over recent decades, little is known about how conception, cell division, and embryonic growth behave during extended space missions. SpaceBorn United focuses on this field through research programs that combine reproductive biology with space mission design. The company develops biomedical platforms intended to study fertilization and early embryo development in orbit under controlled partial gravity conditions, generating data relevant to both future human settlement concepts and reproductive medicine on Earth. Its work is connected to broader scientific efforts aimed at understanding how biological systems adapt beyond terrestrial environments.

Technology and Product

SpaceBorn United develops laboratory systems for reproductive biology experiments in orbit. A central element is the ARTIS program (Assisted Reproductive Technology in Space), which includes a compact IVF and embryo incubation platform for spaceflight conditions. The system is designed to support fertilization and early embryo development under controlled partial gravity during orbital missions. The laboratory architecture combines microfluidics, temperature regulation, embryo incubation, and cryogenic preservation within a compact payload. Adjustable gravity levels are generated through rotational systems to study how gravity influences embryonic development. Initial validation missions use animal cells, while later stages are intended to expand toward human reproductive research.

ARTIS system for IVF and embryo research in space, including cryogenic preservation for safe transport. (© SpaceBorn United)

Industrial Fit and Applications

Research into reproduction under altered gravity conditions has relevance for both future space habitation and terrestrial reproductive medicine. SpaceBorn United’s experiments are intended to generate data on embryo development, radiation exposure, and cellular behavior under spaceflight conditions. The same technologies can contribute to advances in IVF automation and reproductive biology on Earth. According to the company, SpaceBorn United collaborates with universities and laboratories in the Netherlands, the UK, Belgium, the USA, and India. Through its Space Reproduction Roadmap Consortium (SRRC), SpaceBorn United also contributes to long-term research planning focused on the reproductive cycle in space.

Concept of future human settlements beyond Earth, supported by research into reproduction and long-term habitation. (© Deeptech Insider)

Founding Team

SpaceBorn United was founded in the Netherlands by Dr. Egbert Edelbroek, who serves as CEO. Before founding the company, Edelbroek worked on projects related to reproductive technologies and became interested in how IVF systems could be adapted for use in space. The company brings together specialists in reproductive biology, biotechnology, ethics, and space systems engineering.