Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #30127: Harnessing the Power of C4 Photosynthesis: A Space-Based Strategy for Sustainable Life Support

The C4 Photosynthesis in Space (C4 Space) experiment investigates whether one of nature’s most efficient photosynthetic pathways can function optimally in the unique environment of space. This study, led by Dr. Pubudu Handakumbura from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, has major implications for sustainable food production on future deep space missions.

Photosynthesis—the process through which plants convert light energy into chemical energy—is central to life on Earth. Most plants use the C3 photosynthetic pathway, but C4 plants, such as maize and sugarcane, have evolved to grow more efficiently under high light, high temperature, and low CO2 conditions.

By sending C4 plants to the ISS across Expeditions 70 to 72, the research team aims to determine if this advanced pathway remains effective in microgravity. They are analyzing leaf structure, chloroplast function, and carbon fixation rates to understand the biochemical and cellular impacts of spaceflight.

Early observations show that while some anatomical changes occur, C4 plants retain much of their photosynthetic efficiency. This is promising news for using these crops in bioregenerative life support systems that recycle carbon dioxide and provide oxygen and food for astronauts.

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