Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Plants Thriving in Modified Gravity Conditions Exhibit Strong Aerial Growth and Robust Health

Posted in
on
French biotech company Orius has reported promising early findings from tests using its gravity simulator, Gravilab, which simulates microgravity conditions for plant growth. The initial trials focused on the leafy green Brassica rapa var. japonica (mizuna), revealing healthy aerial growth but unexpectedly shallow, horizontal root systems. Future experiments will delve into root architecture and assess the plant’s overall growth dynamics before advancing to fruiting models. Gravilab integrates advanced lighting and fertigation systems, enabling precise tracking of growth parameters. Orius is also addressing key challenges like irrigation and airflow management in microgravity, emphasizing the importance of resource efficiency. The research aims to develop mechanisms that could benefit both space agriculture and Earth-based crop cultivation.

Read More