ISRO Successfully Germinates Black-eyed Pea Seeds in Space

January 17, 2025

Recent advancements in space agriculture have emerged as critical for long-duration human missions to celestial bodies. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully germinated black-eyed pea seeds in space as part of its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS). This milestone marks the potential for sustainable food sources during extended space travel, addressing both nutritional needs and psychological well-being of astronauts.

ISRO’s CROPS Initiative

The CROPS project aims to explore plant growth in space.
It is designed to simulate Earth-like conditions, excluding gravity.
The first mission, CROPS-1, demonstrated seed germination and initial plant growth in a controlled environment aboard a spacecraft.

Challenges of Space Agriculture

Growing plants in microgravity presents unique challenges:

Roots cannot grow downwards, and water distribution is difficult.
High radiation levels and extreme temperature fluctuations also threaten plant development.
Adequate light is essential for photosynthesis, especially in areas with limited sunlight.

Methods of Cultivation

Plants in space can be grown using the following methods:

Hydroponics delivers nutrients through liquid solutions
Aeroponics uses mist to reduce water and fertiliser usage
Soil-like media can also be employed to create a familiar growing environment.

Technical Specifications of CROPS-1

CROPS-1 features a mini greenhouse setup with a soil-like medium made of porous clay pellets.
The module maintains Earth-like atmospheric conditions, with controlled temperature and light cycles.
Water is delivered via an electric valve, allowing for precise moisture regulation.

Germination Process

After launch, water was injected into the soil medium, initiating germination. Sensors monitored carbon dioxide and oxygen levels, indicating plant growth. On the fourth day, sprouting was observed, and by the fifth day, two leaves had emerged.

Ideal Plants for Space

Plants selected for space cultivation are fast-growing and nutrient-rich. Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach are ideal, along with beans for their protein content. Root vegetables and grains like wheat and rice are also suitable for long-term sustenance.

Future Prospects

The next phase of the CROPS initiative will focus on extended growth periods, aiming for plant development beyond the two-leaf stage. This will involve active control systems to manage environmental factors, ensuring sustainable plant growth in space.

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