Taking agriculture beyond Earth is now a reality. Scientists are planning to use microbes to grow plants in the soil of Earth’s moon, Luna. Scientists aim to extend agriculture beyond Earth, with the moon being the primary target. NASA is gearing up for crewed Artemis missions to the Moon in the near future. Following these missions, astronauts will set out to grow plants on the lunar surface. The plan involves introducing Earth microbes into the lunar soil to make it more conducive for plant growth. Here are the details:
Astronauts to Use Microbes to Grow Plants on the Moon’s Surface! Astronauts are planning to cultivate the first plants on the lunar surface during future Moon missions. However, obtaining lunar soil for plant growth has been a challenging process. Scientists are now aiming for a breakthrough in this process by introducing Earth microbes to lunar soil. This approach is expected to enhance the fertility of lunar soil for plants. Ongoing research on growing plants in lunar soil has shown that the Moon’s soil contains various elements crucial for plant growth. However, experiments using lunar soil have indicated challenges in supporting crops. The key to obtaining lunar soil suitable for plant growth may lie in adding Earth microbes to the mix. Over the years, microbes on our planet have contributed to making it more habitable. Introducing these microbes to lunar soil could help unlock essential nutrients for plant growth. Developing this approach will pave the way for creating lunar greenhouses, allowing astronauts in future missions, such as Artemis III, to cultivate crops. NASA and other space agencies have ambitious plans to establish lunar bases, and this agricultural project will significantly contribute to sustainable lunar habitats. It marks a significant step for astronauts aiming to establish colonies in space.
Researchers have conducted various tests on lunar soil, revealing some striking results. Plants grown with three types of bacteria (or microbes) exhibited longer stems and roots after just six days compared to those grown in normal lunar soil without additional microbes.