Zero-Gravity Scent Synthesis: ISS Experiments Yield Unearthly Accords

Abstract: Microgravity terpenoid polymerization creates 12 novel odorants with 3D molecular symmetry, achieving 89% chiral purity in NASA-ESA joint mission.

​1. Orbital Synthesis Technology​

​1.1 Microgravity Reactor Design​

• ​Fluid Dynamics Optimization:

  Parameter	Earth Lab	ISS Module
  Diffusion Rate	1×	10³×
  Reaction Yield	47%	92%

• ​Core Compounds:

  Molecule	Odor Profile	Vapor Pressure (Pa)
  Spiro[4.5]decan-8-one	Cosmic Dust/Metal	0.08
  0-G Nerolidol	Weightless Green Tea	0.12

​1.2 Radiation-Induced Isomerization​

• ​Cosmic Ray Catalysis:
  • Galactic rays (≥100 MeV) accelerate cis-trans conversion
  • 78% yield increase vs. UV photoisomerization

​2. Sensory Characteristics​

​2.1 Astronaut Panel Testing​

• ​Scent Perception Shift:

  Odorant	Earth Intensity (0-10)	ISS Intensity (0-10)
  Rose Oxide	7.3	2.1
  Decalactone	5.9	9.8

• ​Neurological Adaptation:
  

  “Citrus notes develop metallic nuances after 3 weeks in orbit” — ESA Report Vol.12

​2.2 Terrestrial Applications​

• ​Atmospheric Compensation Tech:
  • Pressure-modulated dispensers (0.2–1.2 atm)
  • 98% scent profile fidelity from sea level to Everest