The cultivation of plants in the soil of other planets — is it possible

Asparagus, grown on meteorite soil.

It seems that Yes. Recently a scientist trying to grow different plants in different soils of extraterrestrial origin, published the preliminary results of their work.

And the results are encouraging: the bacteria, microscopic fungi, and even asparagus with potatoes can grow on the soil of extraterrestrial origin. In General, this is not surprising, since the material of most asteroids and meteorites contain phosphates, nitrates and, sometimes, even water.

Therefore, a scientist (Michael Mater from Virginia Commonwealth University), conducting the above described experiments, to believe that on other planets you can easily grow plants, of course, in protected domes/underground.

Microscopic algae and bacteria on meteorite soil.

The preparations for the landing still spend too need. For example, the tested meteorite scientist milled to a more or less fine fraction material, in order to obtain the ground. On other planets do, can, and will not have to, because at the same Mars, for example, a lot of sand/dust.

On other planets, however, must take into consideration unusual for earth gravity/radiation background. But such research is already underway at NASA. For example, in 2015 on the moon plan to send live plants in a secure container, and see how they feel there.

The same experiment is planned on Mars, but in 2021.





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