Khaberni - German researchers have developed a method for cultivating edible plants on Mars using planetary dust and microorganisms, a step towards self-sustaining space colonies.
The system relies on cyanobacteria capable of surviving harsh environments and using carbon dioxide to produce oxygen and nutrients for the plants. Martian soil simulant (MGS-1) was used to convert these organisms into biomass, which then underwent anaerobic fermentation to produce nutrient-rich fertilizer.
The fertilizer was tested on water lentils, a fast-growing, protein-rich plant, and one gram of bacteria demonstrated the ability to produce 27 grams of edible plant mass. The fermentation process also generated methane gas, providing a potential energy source.
This research, according to the scientists, highlights the potential for establishing closed agricultural systems on Mars that rely on local resources to provide food, oxygen, and possibly energy; making future colonies more sustainable.
Researcher Tiago Ramalho said: "Imagine a vegetable garden on Mars managed entirely from local resources without the need to bring soil or fertilizers. This self-sufficiency is essential for future Mars colonies."
However, the experiment has not yet been tested under the harsh conditions of Mars, such as radiation, gravity, and extreme temperatures. The team plans to further develop the system and integrate it with other life-support technologies, with the potential for later application on Earth in areas with poor soil.
