In space, everything is limited—from water and food to oxygen. But did you know there are certain plants that can serve two vital functions for astronauts: providing food and producing oxygen? Let’s get to know these extraordinary plants!
- Red Romaine Lettuce
Why NASA chose it:
- Easy to grow in limited space
- Fast-growing
- Rich in vitamins A, K, and antioxidants
Cool fact:
This plant was successfully cultivated on the International Space Station (ISS) and became the first food grown and eaten in space!
- Dwarf Wheat
Benefits:
- Source of carbohydrates
- Can be processed into staple foods (bread, pasta)
- Absorbs CO₂ and produces O₂
Advantages:
Short stature and quick harvest cycle, ideal for low-gravity conditions.
- Duckweed (Lemna minor)
Small but powerful!
- High in protein (up to 45%)
- Grows extremely fast
- Can be used for water and waste recycling
Unique fact:
So efficient, this plant is nicknamed the “superfood of the future” and is being studied by NASA for Mars missions.
