Biology and Photodynamics

Coral: Many species of coral spawn in synch several nights after the full moon. Recent research suggests that these species are unusually sensitive to the blue region of the light spectrum, allowing them to sense the blue wavelengths in moonlight. As coral becomes increasingly endangered, further research in this area will be invaluable if we are able to discover a way to aid or expedite reef growth.

Reproductive Cycles: Evidence shows that lunar phases have a powerful effect on the reproductive cycles of many marine animals, including many shellfish, the palolo worm, the Japanese crinoid and the lugworm. The Interstellar Light Collector could aid further research into these organisms; ultimately, this could lead us to greater understanding of not only their life cycles, but of human life cycles and circadian rhythms.  
 
Water: Though we have long been aware of the moon’s influence on the oceans’ tides, some researchers believe that the moon’s influence on water in general is much vaster than we presently understand. Water has the capacity to respond to extremely subtle gravitational changes, as observed in connection with moon phases. Our increased understanding of these responses encourages further research into the full effect the moon has on biological organisms – plant, animal and human – whose systems contain and rely on large percentages of water.