Scientists from Wageningen University & Research, have made
significant strides in space agriculture, exploring how to grow crops on Martian soil to ensure
self-sustainability for future Mars colonies.
Scientist uses an Ancient Agricultural Technique called intercropping
which involves growing different crops together, optimizing resources like water and nutrients,
and boosting plant growth and yield.
Researchers used a NASA-developed regolith simulant, closely matching
Martian soil’s properties, to test plant growth under Mars-like conditions.
All three crops thrived, especially tomatoes, which showed significant
yield and size increases when grown using intercropping techniques.
Intercropping could revolutionize food production on Mars, ensuring
resource efficiency and self-sustainability for future colonies.
The technology developed for Mars can also improve Earth’s agriculture,
particularly in degraded soils, aiding food security and climate resilience.
This research paves the way for innovative solutions to regenerate poor
soils and develop high-yielding, self-sustainable food systems, benefiting both Mars and
Earth.