Research led by the University of Melbourne has advanced the possibility of growing plants in space, paving the way for future missions to the moon and Mars. Collaborating with NASA and various international space agencies, over 40 scientists from 11 countries are working on innovative strategies to support long-term human habitation in extraterrestrial environments.
This research is part of the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Plants for Space (P4S), which runs from 2024 to 2030. The findings align with NASA’s Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the moon and eventually sending them to Mars.
Significance of Plants in Space Exploration
Plants play a crucial role in sustaining life beyond Earth. They serve multiple functions, including providing oxygen, recycling waste, and improving mental well-being for astronauts. The research proposes a framework known as the “Bioregenerative Life Support System (BLSS) Readiness Level,” enhancing NASA’s crop evaluation metrics to assess how effectively plants can support human life in space habitats.
Sigfredo Fuentes, a key researcher from the University’s Digital Agriculture, Food and Wine (DAFW) group, emphasizes the importance of plants not only as a food source but as essential elements for sustaining life in the cosmos. As human missions to the moon are scheduled for 2030 and Mars for 2040, addressing nutritional needs is critical for astronaut health and mission success.
Challenges of Extraterrestrial Agriculture
Growing plants in space presents unique challenges. Microgravity affects fluid dynamics, complicating the delivery of water and nutrients to plant roots. Additionally, the absence of natural convection hinders heat transfer and air circulation, both vital for plant growth. Current research is focused on understanding how plants adapt to these conditions, particularly through the study of gravitropism—how plants respond to gravity variations.
Upcoming experiments will test plant growth on the moon. The Artemis III mission, set for late 2027, will conduct the Lunar Effect on Agricultural Flora (LEAF) experiment, growing three fast-growing plant species in a controlled environment on the lunar surface. After a week, approximately 500 grams of plant samples will return to Earth for further analysis, including studies conducted by P4S partners in Australia examining gene expression under lower gravity and heightened cosmic radiation.
Researchers are also leveraging advanced technologies such as omics and artificial intelligence. These innovations aim to develop ‘digital twins’ that can optimize plant growth and ensure food quality for astronauts, addressing sensory experiences to prevent menu fatigue.
Broader Implications for Earth
The implications of this research extend beyond space exploration. The knowledge gained from cultivating plants in extreme environments could significantly enhance sustainable agricultural practices on Earth. As humanity approaches the goal of becoming a multi-planetary species, understanding how to nurture plants in space will be crucial.
By tapping into the potential of plants, researchers are not just reaching for the stars; they are also fostering a sustainable future for humanity both on Earth and beyond. This vital research underscores the enduring relationship between humanity and nature, highlighting how plants can be our steadfast companions as we venture into new frontiers.
For further reading, refer to the research published in New Phytologist by Luke L. Fountain and colleagues, titled “Expanding frontiers: harnessing plant biology for space exploration and planetary sustainability” (2025).
