The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) had sent cowpea (black-eyed pea) seeds into space on 30 December 2023. Now last week the news of germination of these seeds came, which is a major achievement in space research for India.
This experiment was conducted under the “CROPS” (Crop Growth Experiment) mission of ISRO. Now the question arises that why is there a need to grow plants in space? And why is it important for future Mars and Moon missions? Let us know in detail about this unique experiment.
Why is there a need to grow plants in space?
1. Preparation for human missions to Mars and Moon
Plans are being made to settle humans on Mars and Moon in the future. In such a situation, providing food resources there will be a big challenge.
If our own food can be grown in space, astronauts will not need to carry food items from Earth.
2. Oxygen supply
Plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis.
This will help in creating a breathable environment for spacecraft and human colonies on Mars.
3. Nutrition and mental health
Food supplies in space are limited, and the nutritional quality of pre-packaged foods also degrades over long periods of time.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are very important for the physical and mental health of astronauts.
According to Siddharth Pandey, scientist at America-based Blue Marble Space Institute of Science,
“Growing plants in space could extend the duration of missions and help in oxygen production.”
Why is it so difficult to grow plants in space?
1. Challenge of microgravity
There is very little gravity in space, which is called microgravity.
Due to this, the roots of the plants do not grow downwards, due to which there is difficulty in absorbing water and nutrients.
2. Difficulty in water supply
In microgravity, water sticks to any surface and cannot reach the roots.
Special irrigation system is required to deliver water to the right place.
3. Temperature and lighting problems
The temperature in space is extremely unstable – it can fluctuate by hundreds of degrees.
Sunlight is also not like that of Earth, hence photosynthesis is done with LED lights.
How did ISRO grow cowpea in space?
ISRO’s CROPS (Crop Growth Experiment) box works like a mini greenhouse.
Highlights of ISRO’s experiment:
Special selection of soil:
ISRO used “highly processed soil” which had tiny pores.
This helps the soil absorb water and release nutrients in a controlled manner.
LED Lights for Photosynthesis:
4 warm LEDs and 4 cool LEDs were used.
The lights were kept on for 16 hours and off for 8 hours, so that day and night could be simulated.
Moisture and Fertilizer Control:
Slow release fertilizers were used for controlled release of water.
Which plants can be grown in space?
Scientists have selected some special plants, which can be grown in space:
1. Leafy Greens
Lettuce, spinach and mustard leaves – these grow fast and take up less space.
They are rich in iron, vitamins and minerals.
2. Legumes & Beans
Cowpea, kidney beans, peas – These are rich in protein and add nitrogen to the soil.
This keeps the cycle of nutrients balanced.
3. Tomatoes & Peppers
NASA has successfully experimented with growing tomatoes and chillies in space.
Their Vitamin C is very important for astronauts.
Techniques for growing plants in space
There are two main methods of growing plants in space:
1. Hydroponics
Instead of soil, plants are grown in nutrient-rich water.
This method eliminates the need for land and prevents wastage of water.
2. Aeroponics
In this technique, the roots are left in the air and nutrients are sprayed.
This saves up to 98% water and eliminates the need for pesticides.
NASA scientists have succeeded in growing plants through aeroponics technology on the International Space Station (ISS).
Is farming possible in space?
This experiment of ISRO shows that farming may be possible on Mars, Moon or in space in the future.
If we could grow our own food in space, humans could be prepared for long trips into the universe.
Now the question is – will we be able to see farms on Mars in the near future? 
Do you consider this space farming technology to be a game-changer? Please share your opinion!
