| dc.description.abstract | With the horizon of space travel set for humans landing on Mars, the duration of flights could last as long as five years. As with any space shuttle, the success of the mission can only be carried as far as the fuel will allow. This concept is no different for food. Crew members depend on a stimulating, nutritious food source to sustain the team for the entirety of their time in space. Individuals who choose to work in such extreme conditions have indicated they would be positively impacted by the availability of fresh produce and the option to cultivate their food. Initial research with the Vegetable Production System, Veggie, aboard the International Space Station (ISS) is testing the feasibility of a fresh crop system in microgravity conditions. Though the current production system on the ISS does lay the groundwork for variety and palatability for fresh food production, there is still more to consider before humans can grow and meet proper nutritional and energy intakes for long-duration, manned missions. Scientists, such as those working on Astro Garden TM, are quickly innovating and developing ways to sustainably and efficiently cultivate crops in microgravity conditions. Other factors, such as preservation and food safety, still require further research to make fresh food in space a reliable source of nutrients. | |
