Many space agencies have dreamed of colonizing other planets for several years, but with technological advances this is getting closer to becoming a reality, since there are currently many scientists developing all kinds of research to make life in space be something feasible. An example of this is a recent discovery that could lead scientists to find a way to grow crops in Mars.
The nicknamed “Red Planet” is one of the celestial bodies that has been most investigated because it is closer to Earth. Studies over the years have determined that the Martian surface is extremely arid and that the chances of anything growing on this land are very slim.
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However, thanks to research led by a sophomore in high school, it was discovered that alfalfa plants and photosynthetic bacteria could help make Mars soil and water suitable enough to support agriculture.
The researchers found that alfalfa, which is commonly harvested as hay for livestock, grew well in this nutrient-poor soil. Also, when scientists grind up these plants, the resulting powder could serve as a fertilizer to help turnips, radishes and lettuce grow in the barren Mars-like soil.
food and nutrition
However, although the crops grew in the enriched soil, the result still did not match the terrestrial products, since the turnips, radishes and lettuce that the scientists grew were not very nutritious. “These foods certainly provide essential vitamins and minerals to humans, although they may not provide much caloric density.”said Elizabeth Swanner, a biogeochemist at Iowa State University in an interview with the Space portal.
“I think this study shows that biofertilization is possible with alfalfa, and the growth of other plant-based foods should be investigated in the future.” the expert concluded.