INTRODUCTION

• ISRO successfully germinated lobia seeds in space on December 30, 2024, using the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS).
• This achievement highlights the potential for sustainable food sources in space exploration.

WHY GROW PLANTS IN SPACE?

1. Sustainable Food Sources
   • Long-duration space missions require renewable food supplies.
   • Pre-packaged food degrades over time, making fresh food crucial.
2. Oxygen Production and Carbon Recycling
   • Plants release oxygen during photosynthesis, maintaining breathable air.
   • They recycle carbon dioxide and organic waste, creating closed-loop life support systems.
3. Mental Health Benefits
   • Caring for plants reduces stress and improves astronauts’ mental well-being.

CHALLENGES OF GROWING PLANTS IN SPACE

1. Microgravity
   • Roots struggle to grow downward without gravity.
   • Water delivery to roots becomes problematic as water clings to surfaces in microgravity.
2. Radiation
   • High radiation levels can damage plant DNA and hinder growth.
3. Temperature Fluctuations
   • Space temperatures vary drastically, requiring insulation for plants.
4. Light Scarcity
   • Photosynthesis halts in low-light conditions, especially in outer space.

METHODS OF GROWING PLANTS IN SPACE

1. Hydroponics
   • Plants grow in a nutrient-rich water solution without soil.
2. Aeroponics
   • Soil-free method using misted nutrients:
     • Reduces water usage by 98% and fertiliser use by 60%.
     • Yields healthier, nutrient-dense plants.

3. Soil-like Media
   • Simulates Earth-like conditions for plant growth.

ISRO’S EXPERIMENT WITH LOBIA SEEDS

1. CROPS Module Design
   • A mini greenhouse with a soil-like medium, LED lights, and Earth-like air.
   • Simulated gravity at 0.01 g (1% of Earth’s gravity).
2. Soil-like Medium
   • Porous clay pellets retained water and released nutrients slowly.
3. Light System
   • Warm and cool LEDs mimicked sunlight.
   • Programmed to simulate day and night cycles (16 hours light, 8 hours dark).
4. Temperature and Atmosphere
   • Regulated between 20–30°C with Earth-like air pressure.
   • Water was remotely injected into the soil by an electric valve.
5. Results
   • Seeds sprouted on Day 4, and two leaves appeared the next day.

IDEAL PLANTS FOR SPACE FARMING

1. Leafy Greens
   • Examples: Lettuce, spinach, kale.
   • Fast-growing, nutrient-rich, and space-efficient.
2. Beans and Peas
   • Protein-rich and improve nutrient cycles through nitrogen fixation.
3. Root Vegetables
   • Examples: Radishes, carrots.
   • Thrive in compact spaces.
4. Grains
   • Examples: Wheat, rice.
   • Crucial for long-term sustenance in space habitats.
5. Fruits
   • Examples: Tomatoes, strawberries.
   • Provide essential vitamins and are compatible with space systems.