Decades have passed since humanity visited the lunar surface, but research on the Moon continues at full speed. In the latest research by scientists, it has been revealed that it is possible to cultivate the soil and grow plants on the Moon.
The experiment in growing plants on lunar surface material called regolith was successful. When NASA sends Artemis astronauts back to the lunar surface in the coming years, they will now be able to grow their own salad ingredients.
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While space travel used to be a part of research and development studies, it has now become a commercial activity.
Mustard grass was grown in the moon soil!
Hardol grass seeds were placed in small samples of regolith collected from the lunar surface about 50 years ago. The seeds were able to germinate and grow in this environment. However, the research revealed that the plants were not fully developed.
shiftdelete.netStephen Elardo from the University of Florida used the following statements in his statements on the subject:
Moon soils don’t have a lot of nutrients needed to support plant growth
While it is revealed that the plants are not developed enough, it is clearly seen that they cannot get enough nutrients. But the seeds began to germinate relatively quickly, with the help of the team that provided them with light, water, and nutrients.
Paul, a professor of Plant Sciences at the University of Florida, said in a statement:
Two days later they began to sprout. Everything sprouted. I can’t tell you how surprised we are! All plants looked the same up to day six, whether in the lunar sample or in the control group.
By the end of the first week, the plants in the regolith began to show slower growth, some red spots, stunted roots and leaves. Later genetic analysis confirmed that mustard grasses are under stress.
Although the lunar regolith is very fine-grained and in powder form, the particles have a very sharp-edged structure. Breathing regolith dust can damage the lungs, and this is not a very suitable environment for plant life.
Growing plants on the moon will help provide not only food but also clean air and water for astronauts and other visitors. In this way, it is stated that longer visits to the Moon can be made.
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