Abstract

An apparatus to contain a closed ecological system, wherein the apparatus includes a closed, air-tight chamber to contain an atmosphere. The chamber includes at least one access opening designed to allow plants, animals, raw materials, and other items to be placed within the chamber. The chamber includes a system for introducing oxygen and/or carbon dioxide into the chamber and for maintaining the oxygen and/or carbon dioxide at a predetermined concentration percentage of the atmosphere. Preferably, the closed ecological system of the present invention also includes a system for establishing a magnetic field within the chamber of a predetermined strength and orientation. The chamber may also include systems for elevating the atmospheric pressure within the chamber and for maintaining the atmosphere within the chamber at a predetermined temperature and humidity level. The chamber may also include a specialized lighting and sound system to establish light and sound of a predetermined intensity, frequency, and wavelength within the chamber. A satellite chamber may be provided in selective fluid communication with the closed ecological system for providing plants, animals, or chemical processes with short-term exposure to the conditions of the closed ecological system. The present invention is also directed to a method of establishing and maintaining a closed ecological system to support plant and animal life and to aid in the development, discovery, and/or production of new and improved chemical compounds that may be used as pharmaceuticals and other chemical compounds.