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Conceptual Model of Autonomous Seed Germination Habitat for Mars MissionAs human space exploration extends to Mars, the ability to germinate seeds in extraterrestrial environments is becoming a necessity. Recent technological feats such as the development of the European Modular Cultivation System (EMCS) have made botany experiments possible on the International Space Station (ISS). Despite preliminary designs, a biocompatible plant life support system capable of traveling to Mars has yet to be developed. This study focuses on two preparatory measures regarding seed germination in spaceflight: analysis of seed dormancy protocols and compact autonomous habitat development.The objective of this project is to conceptualize a habitat capable of preserving arabidopsis plant seeds on a long duration spaceflight for the purpose of germinating the first plants on Mars. The proposed container will require a compact, low wattage system to provide gas ventilation, artificial light, and water. A visualization system will also need to be developed in order to monitor seed germination remotely. In order to test the effects of dormancy durations on plant viability, we will conduct a ground study to monitor seed germination in seeds which have been dormant for three, six, nine, and twelve months. We will also compare the effects of different sterilization procedures. The results of this study will be instrumental in developing a viable procedure for transferring the first living plants to Mars.
Document ID
20200000878
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Poster
Authors
Peter, Jonah
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Abujder, Rodrigo Rene Rai Muñoz
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Vlastos, Joseph Niko
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Dubee, Parker
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Monhollon, Luke
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Vasic, Ivana
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Pfail, John
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Solomides, Pantelis
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Lokugamage, Melissa
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Hamid, Iman
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Zhang, Alice
(Space Life Sciences Training Program (SLSTP) Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Rask, Jon
(KBRwyle Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Bowman, Robert
(KBRwyle Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
February 14, 2020
Publication Date
October 25, 2016
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Report/Patent Number
ARC-E-DAA-TN36782
Report Number: ARC-E-DAA-TN36782
Meeting Information
Meeting: American Society for Gravitational and Space Research (ASGSR) Conference
Location: Cleveland, OH
Country: United States
Start Date: September 26, 2016
End Date: September 29, 2016
Sponsors: American Society for Gravitational and Space Research (ASGSR)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NNA14AB82C
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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