Space agriculture is an emerging field vital for long-term space missions and addressing terrestrial food security. This book explores the scientific and engineering principles of growing food in space, focusing on hydroponics in microgravity, controlled environment systems, and crop optimization. Readers will discover how selecting and genetically modifying crops can create sustainable food sources for astronauts, reducing reliance on Earth-based resupply. Space Agriculture progresses from fundamental hydroponics to designing closed-loop systems that regulate crucial environmental factors. The book highlights how altered gravity impacts plant growth and how energy-efficient lighting systems are essential. It emphasizes the necessity of creating self-sufficient ecosystems beyond Earth. One intriguing fact is the potential for waste recycling in space to contribute to sustainable food production. The book uniquely integrates scientific research with practical engineering, offering a holistic view of space agriculture. It draws from peer-reviewed articles, NASA reports, and ISS experiments. By linking space agriculture to environmental science, engineering, and nutrition, the book demonstrates its interdisciplinary nature. This approach provides a comprehensive overview for students, researchers, and enthusiasts interested in the future of food production.
