As human space exploration moves toward long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, the need for sustainable life-support systems has become increasingly important. One of the key elements of these systems is the ability to grow plants in space. Plants not only provide fresh and nutritious food for astronauts but also help produce oxygen, remove carbon dioxide, and support psychological well-being during long stays in space. NASA has been conducting extensive research on growing plants in microgravity environments, particularly aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Unlike Earth, space lacks natural soil, gravity, and normal water flow, making plant growth a major scientific challenge. To overcome these limitations, NASA uses advanced plant growth systems that rely on artificial lighting, controlled environmental conditions, and sensor-based monitoring. Studying how plants grow in space helps scientists understand the effects of microgravity on biological processes and supports the development of self-sustaining habitats for future space missions. At the same time, this research contributes to innovative farming techniques on Earth, such as hydroponics, vertical farming, and smart agriculture. Studying plant growth in space also helps scientists understand how microgravity affects plant biology, including root orientation, cell growth, nutrient absorption, and gene expression. This research is essential for designing reliable farming systems for future lunar bases and Mars habitats, where astronauts may need to grow their own food for months or even years.
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