Space & Astronomy

Astronauts grow first ever flower in space

By T.K. Randall
January 18, 2016

Image: International Space Station
Credit: (PD) NASA Growing things in zero-gravity can be a difficult task, but now following months of experimentation the vegetable garden aboard the International Space Station has produced the first ever flower grown in space - an edible species called orange zinnia.

The achievement is significant because it offers the possibility of growing enough food to sustain a future manned mission to Mars where supplies from Earth would be severely limited.

Yes, there are other life forms in space! #SpaceFlower #YearInSpace pic.twitter.com/BJFWvQXmBB

— Scott Kelly (@StationCDRKelly) January 16, 2016

In addition to the practical benefits, behavioral psychologists believe that growing plants can also provide a substantial psychological boost for astronauts during long space voyages.

"While not all crew members may enjoy taking care of plants, for many, having this option is beneficial," said NASA scientist Alexandra Whitmire.

"Plants can indeed enhance long duration missions in isolated, confined and extreme environments - environments that are artificial and deprived of nature."

Source: News.com.au

Tags: Flower, ISS