Cowpea Seeds Sprout in Space

Sub: Sci

Sec: Space sector

Why in News

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted two groundbreaking experiments:

Cowpea Seed Germination in Space:

Experiment Name: CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies).
Objective: To develop capabilities for growing and sustaining flora in extraterrestrial environments.
Conducted by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). Eight cowpea seeds were placed in a closed-box environment with active thermal control.
Germination occurred within four days, and leaves are expected to emerge soon.

India’s First Space Robotic Arm:

Experiment Name: Relocatable Robotic Manipulator – Technology Demonstrator (RRM-TD).
The robotic arm is a 7 Degree of Freedom (DoF) manipulator.
Performs relocation tasks using an “inchworm walking” mechanism.
Operates on the POEM-4 platform.
Marks a milestone in India’s Make in India initiative for space technology.

CROPS Payload:

Fully automated system for seed germination and early plant growth in a microgravity environment.
Duration: 5–7 days.
Potential Applications: Developing sustainable food solutions for space habitats. Understanding the impact of microgravity on plant biology.

Cowpea Seeds:

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is a drought-tolerant legume widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions.
Known by various names, such as lobia in Hindi and thattapayaru in Tamil, it plays a vital role in food security and soil fertility.
- Family:
- Genus:
- Species: Vigna unguiculata.
Physical Characteristics: Small, kidney-shaped seeds. Colors vary, including white, cream, black, and brown.
Nutritional Composition: Rich in protein (about 20–25%). Contains essential nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, and dietary fiber. Low in fat, making it a healthy food option.
Varieties:
- Bush type: Grows as a shrub.
- Creeper type: Spreads as a vine.