Southland Teen Wins $50,000 for Innovative Space Bandage Design

A 17-year-old student from Southland, Sophie Ineson, has been awarded the Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour, which carries a prize of $50,000. Her project, aimed at improving wound healing for astronauts, addresses a critical issue in space travel: even minor injuries can escalate in microgravity.

Ineson developed a unique bandage, named HydroHeal, as part of her entry for the NZAS Southland Science and Technology fair. During a ceremony at Parliament on October 16, 2023, she showcased how her design could benefit astronauts, who face slower healing rates due to reduced oxygen delivery, impaired immune systems, and the challenges posed by lunar dust, known as regolith.

Ineson explained the complexities of wound healing in space, stating, “On Earth you can put a band aid on and it heals in a few days, but it’s a completely different story in space.” Her innovative bandage is designed to function effectively under the unique conditions of space.

To meet NASA’s requirements for upcoming Artemis missions, Ineson focused on creating a bandage that could be applied while wearing gloves and maintain its integrity over time. The challenges of microgravity, such as wound fluids pooling instead of draining, required a thoughtful approach.

After extensive research and the development of four prototypes, Ineson settled on a two-layered dressing that incorporates chitosan, a natural polymer known for its antibacterial properties, along with hemp seed oil and lecithin for their anti-inflammatory effects and moisture retention.

The judging panel praised her work as “a well-thought-out and independently carried-out project,” noting its potential benefits for both space missions and healthcare on Earth. They highlighted that it combines medical knowledge with engineering design and demonstrates a clear commitment to solving real-world problems.

Ineson’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given her proximity to the Awarua Space Ops site, where scientists conduct vital satellite operations. She has also established a club at the Southland Girls’ High School called innovatHer, aimed at mentoring students to explore careers in science and engineering, especially in fields related to space.

Her commitment to promoting gender diversity in science is longstanding. In Year 7, Ineson won the Fair Go Consumer Heroes competition for her project advocating for increased female participation in space-related careers. She believes that even young people interested in law can find opportunities in the emerging field of “space law.”

As she prepares for university, Ineson plans to combine her interests in neuroscience and psychology. She aims to study how living in space affects mental health compared to individuals on Earth.

Ineson expressed her excitement about the future, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities, “The opportunities are vast – and right there to reach out and grab.” She encourages her peers to have the confidence to pursue their aspirations and contribute to advancements in space exploration and beyond.