A groundbreaking milestone has been achieved by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) with the CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies) experiment aboard PSLV-C60 POEM-4. Eight cowpea seeds sprouted their first leaves in space, marking a significant step toward cultivating flora in extraterrestrial environments.
Key Highlights of the Experiment
- Objective: Developing technologies for growing and sustaining plants in space.
- Setup: Seeds were placed in a controlled closed-box environment with thermal regulation.
- Timeline: Germination occurred within four days; leaves have now emerged.
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
- Importance: A drought-tolerant legume crucial for food security and soil enrichment.
- Local Names: Known as lobia (Hindi) and thattapayaru (Tamil).
- Nutritional Value: Rich in protein (20–25%), iron, calcium, magnesium, and fiber.
- Varieties:
- Bush Type: Shrub-like growth.
- Creeper Type: Vine-like spreading growth.
This achievement highlights the potential of space agriculture, bringing humanity closer to sustaining life beyond Earth. 🌌
Source: ISRO
