First Black-eyed Pea Sprouts in Space by ISRO
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone in space agriculture by successfully germinating black-eyed pea (lobia) seeds aboard its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS). This breakthrough underscores the potential for cultivating sustainable food sources for long-duration space missions, essential for meeting the nutritional and psychological needs of astronauts during extended periods in space.
| Summary/Static | Details |
| Why in the news? | First Black-eyed Pea Sprouts in Space by ISRO |
| Mission Name | CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies) |
| Objective | Sustainable plant growth in space for long-term missions |
| Key Challenge | Microgravity, radiation, temperature fluctuations, and limited sunlight |
| Cultivation Methods | Hydroponics, Aeroponics, Soil-like Media |
| Technical Features | Mini greenhouse, porous clay pellets, controlled atmosphere, and LEDs |
| Results | Black-eyed pea seeds germinated; sprouting and leaf growth observed |
| Ideal Plants | Lettuce, spinach, beans, peas, radishes, wheat, rice |
| Future Focus | Longer growth cycles, integration into life support systems |
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