Life Science Accelerator Update: Zeprion-2 Has Launched to the ISS with SpacePharma
Share this page
The Zeprion-2 mission, launched on 24 August 2025 aboard SpaceX33, marks a significant milestone in European space-based research and commercialization. Co-funded via the ESA BSGN Industry Accelerator for Life Sciences, managed by MEDES, and led by a commercial consortium including SpacePharma-EU, University of Trento, University of Milano Bicocca, University of Santiago de Compostela, Italian National Research Council, IBBA CNR National Research Council and Telethon Foundation, Zeprion-2 project exemplifies how space can serve as a frontier for transformative innovation in structural biology and drug discovery.
Zeprion-2 is the second iteration of a pioneering research initiative focused on protein crystallization in microgravity. The project utilises a remotely operated lab-on-a-chip microfluidic device developed by SpacePharma-EU aboard the International Space Station (ISS) to initiate and monitor crystal growth. This unique environment allows scientists to produce high-quality protein crystals that are often unattainable on Earth, unlocking new possibilities for pharmaceutical development. The project builds on the legacy of Zeprion-1, which was catalysed by Alice Anane, founder of the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Foundation. Her vision to explore space-based crystallization for prion protein research laid the groundwork for this international collaboration.
Zeprion-2 is more than a scientific experiment. It is a proof of concept for how space-based platforms can revolutionise commercially driven R&D. Protein crystallography is a cornerstone of drug design, and the ability to generate superior crystals in space can dramatically improve the resolution of structural data, especially for complex or unstable proteins.
For pharmaceutical companies, this means faster, more efficient drug pipelines. For biotech innovators, it opens new avenues for research. And for European industry, it demonstrates the viability of commercial space-based experimentation.
BSGN’s support for Zeprion-2 has been comprehensive and sustained. Over the past 12 months, the BSGN Industry Accelerator managed by MEDES, provided support to the Zeprion team and co-funded the development which allowed its microfluidic crystallization system to life. From ideation to launch, BSGN is a partner in every step of the journey, helping projects like Zeprion to navigate complexities of space-based R&D and unlock new commercial opportunities through:
- Early-stage scoping and feasibility assessments
- Access to ESA’s technical expertise and infrastructure
- Facilitation of international partnerships
- Support with regulatory and operational planning
- Commercial matchmaking with LEO Commercial Service Providers (CSPs) and visibility across Europe
To discover how BSGN empowers innovation across diverse industries, explore the industry-focused accelerators.
To connect with pioneering companies benefiting from our network, browse the growing list of companies we support.
About ESA and BSGN
The Business in Space Growth Network (BSGN) is a European Space Agency (ESA) initiative designed to foster European commercialisation in space. By connecting industry, academia and public institutions, BSGN supports projects that leverage space environments for innovation across sectors – from health and biotech to materials science and beyond. BSGN’s mission is to enable and accelerate commercial access to space, providing the tools, funding, and strategic guidance needed to turn visionary ideas into operational realities.
About MEDES
The BSGN Life Sciences Industry Accelerator aims to engage new players from biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, supporting projects that tackle terrestrial challenges through the unique advantages of the space environment combined with European commercial space-based platforms in Low Earth Orbit. It fosters collaboration with the commercial space ecosystem, encourages the development of high-potential commercial activities, and seeks to attract new sources of funding beyond ESA.
