First European Interstellar Symposium 2024

Angelo Vermeulen

Angelo Vermeulen is a space biologist, complex systems engineer, computational designer, and artist with a PhD in biology from KU Leuven. Currently a researcher at TU Delft, he develops bio-inspired and bioregenerative concepts for multigenerational interstellar exploration. He focuses on self-developing and self-reproducing architecture to create resilient starships capable of adapting to the inherent uncertainty of human interstellar exploration. Vermeulen is the CTO of SpaceBorn United, a startup developing technology for human reproduction in space. He also co-founded SEADS, a cross-cultural collective merging art, science, and technology. Currently, he is working as a game designer on Lunar Strike, a political science fiction computer game developed by Cognition, with studios in Los Angeles and Antwerp. In 2013, Vermeulen commanded the first NASA-funded HI-SEAS Mars simulation, and in 2022, he reached the final 6% in the ESA astronaut selection process. His work has earned him recognition, including being named Belgian Tech Pioneer and receiving fellowships from TED and Parsons School for Design. He has authored over 60 publications on his research in art and science.


Affiliation

Delft University of Technology


Session

12-05
10:40
20min
Biological and mechanical reproduction strategies for interstellar exploration and settlement
Angelo Vermeulen, Arpi Derm, Alvaro Papic, Igor Nikolic, Frances Brazier
Session 5: Space habitat achitecture, life support systems
Banquet Room