First Duckweed Plant Launched into Space
First Duckweed Plant Launched into Space
Wanna Greens Fly as CRS-29 Mission Payload
The first duckweed plant to be the subject of research aboard the International Space Station is a Wolffia vegetable cultivated by Israeli agro-tech manufacturer GreenOnyx.
"Our first set of experiments of duckweed in space aims to explore its rapid growth patterns, high nutrient content, and potential as a sustainable fresh food source for astronauts on long-duration space missions."
Tsipi Shoham, GreenOnyx
Launched on November 9, a proprietary package of fresh Wanna Greens and a duckweed miniature cultivation module developed by GreenOnyx flew to the ISS. The payload underwent rigorous testing and received NASA's stamp of approval as part of the Commercial Resupply Service (CRS)-29 mission.
NASA has studied Duckweed (freshwater lentils) for their potential use in space environments; however, actual space missions involving the launch of duckweeds have not yet taken place until now. Wanna Greens is the world's smallest green vegetable and contains more iron than spinach, more zinc than kale, and more potassium than any green vegetable – all integral to promoting cellular strength, preventing illness and disease, and enhancing longevity.
"Our first set of experiments of duckweed in space aims to explore its rapid growth patterns, high nutrient content, and potential as a sustainable fresh food source for astronauts on long-duration space missions," said GreenOnyx co-founder and CEO Dr. Tsipi Shoham.
"These studies aim to understand how duckweed can be cultivated effectively in microgravity environments using GreenOnyx's proprietary technology and how astronauts can easily consume fresh greens in space. The findings may affect fresh food supply chain exploration in space and already impact our sustainable agriculture and fresh food consumption here on Earth."
In the context of space exploration, maintaining the health and well-being of astronauts is essential. NASA's studies recognize that providing fresh nutrition, including fresh fruits and vegetables, provides critical vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that contribute to overall health. These nutrients are vital in supporting the immune system, bone health, and other physiological and mental functions. As space agencies plan for future long-duration missions, such as missions to Mars, the importance of sustaining astronauts' health over extended periods becomes even more critical. Fresh nutrition is seen as a key component in addressing the challenges of long-term space travel.