PLANT BIO-STIMULATION | Developing Strategies for Agriculture on Mars
Plant biostimulation experiments conducted in the station will have a significant benefit for future space settlements in term of food production efficiency. By gaining a better understanding of how to cultivate crops and improve plant growth in harsh environments, scientists can help to ensure that future space settlements are sustainable and self-sufficient.
Additionally, plant biostimulation experiments could play a crucial role in maintaining the psychological well-being of space settlers. Plants have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, and the presence of greenery can help to reduce stress and improve the general mood of the crew.
PROJECT LEAD: Cécile Renaud
RATIONALE / HYPOTHESIS
These experiments involve the use of microorganisms (Limnospira indica) as biostimulant to stimulate plant growth and improve their overall health. Conducting such experiments at the Mars Research Desert Station would allow scientists to gain valuable insights into the feasibility of growing crops in a Mars-like environment. Therefore, by understanding how different biostimulation techniques affect plant growth, scientists can identify the most effective ways to cultivate crops on Mars. This research could also help to develop sustainable agriculture systems that can produce food for future space settlers but also on Earth.