Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32483: Growing Green in Space: Nitrogen Fixation of Legumes in Microgravity

How do plants survive and thrive in the harsh environment of space? That’s exactly what the experiment "Nitrogen Fixation of Leguminous Species in MicroG" set out to discover. Conducted aboard the International Space Station (ISS), this study explored whether leguminous plants—like peas and beans—can fix nitrogen in microgravity. Nitrogen fixation is a critical process that allows plants to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for growth. This capability could make future space farming viable, reducing the need to transport fertilizer from Earth.

In partnership with Space Tango, Inc., and led by Ted Tagami from Magnitude.io, the project involved multiple expeditions, including 61/62, 64, and 65. Researchers monitored root growth, plant development, and bacterial activity in microgravity. The study's core objective was to examine the symbiotic relationship between legumes and nitrogen-fixing bacteria under space conditions.

On Earth, legumes form nodules on their roots where these bacteria live and convert nitrogen into a plant-friendly form. The question was: can this relationship endure in space, where gravity doesn’t guide root orientation or fluid flow?

Preliminary findings showed that the process can occur, though with variations. Nodules formed differently, and bacterial activity fluctuated. Yet, this marks a promising step toward self-sustaining agricultural systems in space. The results contribute not only to future off-world colonies but also enhance our understanding of sustainable agriculture on Earth.

This project also played an educational role, inspiring students through real-time data sharing and participation. Schools across the U.S. followed the experiment and mirrored it in classrooms, encouraging STEM engagement.

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