PERUN opens up access to space. From seeds to electronics – Polish suborbital experiments
What does an experiment in space look like and who can carry it out? We showcase selected projects carried out on board PERUN rocket.
PERUN suborbital flights are not only tests of rocket technology but also a real research platform for scientists, companies and start-ups. On board, there can be both passive experiments such as seeds or biological materials and active devices collecting data or emitting signals.
Every payload undergoes rigorous testing to ensure the safety of the entire mission and the accuracy of results. It is a unique research environment in which experiments are subjected to G-forces, vibrations and temperature changes as well as conditions similar to vacuum and cosmic radiation.
AstroFarms – the future of food in space
One of the experiments carried out on board PERUN was research conducted by AstroFarms. Scientists investigated how microorganisms used for fermentation – bacteria and yeasts known from kombucha production – react to suborbital conditions.
The aim of the project is to develop technology for producing functional food for astronauts. In the long term, this could mean the possibility of producing nutritious food directly in space. At the same time, research was carried out into the germination capacity of seeds from various plant species. Around half a million vegetable seeds were analysed.
The results show that most of the species studied cope well in microgravity conditions. Only tomato and broccoli seeds showed slightly greater sensitivity, which provides an important clue for future research into growing plants in space.
TORAF – how seeds change under suborbital conditions
TORAF Seed experiment focuses on analysing the impact of suborbital conditions on plant material, in particular the changes that occur in seeds during flight. Research of this kind provides a better understanding of how the space environment affects the development of living organisms from the cellular level to germination and subsequent growth.
This is just the beginning. The TORAF Seed experiment will continue on subsequent PERUN flights, enabling long-term monitoring of changes and the creation of a unique database on the impact of suborbital conditions on living organisms.
SpaceForest – Technology on board
In addition to passive payloads such as seeds and fungi, PERUN also enables the testing of advanced electronic devices. Active payloads like data-collection systems, sensors and signal generators can be carried on board.
One example is the test of a frequency generator developed by the SpaceForest team. The device was subjected to extreme conditions: G-forces, vibrations and fluctuating temperatures. Such tests allow the reliability of the technology to be verified even before it is used in more demanding space missions.
What does preparing an experiment for flight involve?
Experimental payloads are placed in standard modules known as 1U cubes which are integrated into the rocket. Each one undergoes a detailed compatibility analysis to ensure it does not interfere with other experiments or the rocket’s systems.
It is a process that combines engineering, science and close collaboration between teams. For many researchers, it is also the first opportunity to test their solutions under real suborbital conditions.
PERUN – a platform for new experiments
Three suborbital flights of PERUN rocket are planned for 2026 from Poland, Portugal and a sea-based platform in Denmark. This means further opportunities for research teams and companies wishing to test their solutions in space conditions.
The invitation is open to universities, research institutions, start-ups and technology companies – anyone wishing to develop their projects in the space sector.
Other experiments on board PERUN
The rocket carried many more experiments prepared by teams from various research centres and companies, including projects carried out by AGH University of Science and Technology.
Due to the nature of the video material, only a selection of these has been presented. However, the full list of experiments demonstrates the breadth of research being carried out as part of PERUN mission – ranging from biology and materials science to advanced electronics.
👉 [See the full list of PERUN experiments]
In microgravity, even basic phenomena behave differently. Crystals grow in a different way and combustion processes occur differently than on Earth. This makes space a unique laboratory for many fields of science.
Reporter: Anna Gonia-Kuc
Main image source: Czysta Polska, episode 256 (Polsat News)
Future PERUN Missions and Open Call for Payloads
As part of the European Space Agency (ESA) Boost! program, SpaceForest invites submissions for research payloads and scientific experiments.
In 2026, PERUN rocket will perform three suborbital test flights from Poland, Portugal and Denmark. Each mission provides a rare opportunity to test technology in microgravity and authentic flight conditions with guaranteed safe payload recovery.
What does SpaceForest offer?
- flight qualification of payloads and comprehensive technical assessment,
- engineering support (R&D) for experiment integration,
- proven launch and recovery procedures ensuring payload safety.
Applications are accepted via the application form. All interested teams will be invited to an online meeting where SpaceForest experts will present details of PERUN rocket system, upcoming missions and the payload qualification and integration process.
Go to the simple form and find out moreuitment form: [click the banner]
