Space Farming: Astronauts Grow Fresh Food on ISS

On August 1, 2025, Crew-11 astronauts launched to the International Space Station (ISS) with the latest VEG-03 experiments, marking a new chapter in space farming. These experiments involve growing Wasabi mustard greens, Red Russian Kale, and Dragoon lettuce in a chamber called Veggie, which is about the size of carry-on luggage. The system uses red, blue, and green LED lights to provide the right spectrum for plant growth.

Astronauts plant seeds into fabric 'seed pillows' filled with a clay-based medium and controlled-release fertilizer. The clay helps distribute water and air around the roots in microgravity. Crew members monitor the plants, add water as needed, and document growth through photographs. Some of the produce will be consumed on the ISS, while other samples will be frozen and returned to Earth for analysis.

Fresh food is crucial for long-duration space missions, such as those to the Moon and Mars. NASA aims to validate different crops to enhance astronaut diets and provide them with more control over their food choices. Additionally, techniques developed for space farming could improve agricultural practices on Earth, offering new methods for indoor cultivation and horticultural therapy.