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Development of an Automated Seed Sowing and Induced Germination System for Space Flight ApplicationThe successful utilization of higher plants in space flight is likely to require the effective transition of plants through all phases of growth and development. A particularly sensitive and critical stage in this cycle is seed germination. The present inflight capability to manipulate seed from a state of dormancy to germination and the performance of such activity under aseptic conditions is extremely limited. An Automated Sowing Mechanism (ASM) has been designed to address this area of science and technology. The self-contained system is readily compatible with the existing Shuttle middeck locker Plant Growth Unit (PGU) and planned Plant Growth Facility (PGF), presenting an opportunity to extend the experimental capability of these systems. The ASM design encompasses the controlled transition of seed from a dry to hydrated state utilizing solid media substrate as the source of water and nutrient support. System activation has been achieved with both photo and timing mechanisms. Controlled induced germination and development of various plant species has been achieved in ground-based trials. The system is presently being prepared for a KC-135 flight test.
Document ID
20020032590
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Heyenga, A. G.
(National Academy of Sciences - National Research Council Moffett Field, CA United States)
Kliss, Mark
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1995
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Meeting Information
Meeting: American Society of Gravitational and Space Biology Conference
Location: Washington, DC
Country: United States
Start Date: October 25, 1995
End Date: October 29, 1995
Sponsors: American Society for Gravitational and Space Biology
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 106-20-07
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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