Souza, D., Bandemegala, S.T.P., Fountain, L. et al. (5 more authors) (2024) Sustainable crop cultivation in space analogs: A BRIDGES methodology perspective through SpaCEA cabinets. In: 53rd International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES). 53rd International Conference on Environmental Systems (ICES), 21-25 Jul 2024, Louiseville, KY, USA. 2024 International Conference on Environmental Systems
Abstract
Sustainable crop cultivation in space holds paramount significance for the support of life in future long-duration missions. This research explores the development and integration of innovative low-cost proof-of-concept (LC-POC) plant growth cabinets tailored for use in space analog missions. By outlining past and current efforts in space farming, this study introduces the SpaCEA Cabinet using BRIDGES framework, establishing a context for reproducible experiments and innovation in plant growth systems. The SpaCEA cabinets can either be delivered in flat packs or assembled on-site, employing cutting-edge methods like 3-D printing and laser cutting. The main objective is to assess how effectively these structures foster crop growth within analog environments while replicating conditions crucial for space exploration. Employing a multi-faceted approach encompassing technical and qualitative dimensions, this project integrates a qualitative investigation where representatives managing analog stations and analog astronauts will partake in interviews and questionnaires to discern specific requirements and challenges within these environments. Insights gained from these engagements will significantly define the final design parameters of updated SpaCEA plant growth cabinets. The practical applicability of these cabinets emphasizes ease of assembly and transportation, addressing the inherent spatial and logistical constraints associated with space missions. Furthermore, the BRIDGES framework ensures the standardization of hardware, software, and data-gathering elements within a unified structure, which utilizes cutting-edge manufacturing technologies for the prototyping and deployment of these cabinets. The anticipated outcomes of this research include the identification of key design considerations and technical specifications for plant growth cabinets tailored to space farming analog systems. This research is poised to contribute valuable knowledge to sustainable space exploration through the development of interoperable plant growth systems for analog environments, advancing research in space crop cultivation which will make up part of a larger bioregenerative life support system.
Metadata
Item Type: | Proceedings Paper |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | © 2024 The Author(s). For reuse permissions, please contact the Author(s). |
Keywords: | Advanced Life Support; Controlled Environment Agriculture; Terrestrial Analogs; Self-sustained Habitats; Space exploration; Space Crop Production |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Sheffield |
Academic Units: | The University of Sheffield > Faculty of Science (Sheffield) > School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Sheffield |
Date Deposited: | 23 May 2025 16:09 |
Last Modified: | 25 May 2025 06:52 |
Published Version: | https://hdl.handle.net/2346/98997 |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | 2024 International Conference on Environmental Systems |
Refereed: | Yes |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:227086 |