Location
Radisson Resort at the Port, Convention Center, Salon I
Start Date
30-4-2003 1:30 PM
End Date
30-4-2003 5:00 PM
Description
Plants will be a critical component of future Bioregenerative Life Support Systems that will be implemented on long duration space missions. We describe here a novel microgravity-rated plant growth apparatus that is targeted for use on the International Space Station (ISS) in the 2004-2005 timeframe. The system contains six modular units capable of utilizing either porous tube and/or substrate-based nutrient delivery approaches. Heat pulse moisture sensors are used to both monitor and control root zone wetness levels. In addition, a fixed-feed water delivery algorithm is available which meters out appropriate levels of water based upon plant life cycle stage. Fifty miniature color cameras will image the plant specimens throughout the experiment, permitting real-time assessments of plant performance over time. Alternative experimental strategies suitable for implementation on the ISS are discussed.
Paper Session I-A - Development of Technology and Experimental Designs for Plant Growth Studies in Space
Radisson Resort at the Port, Convention Center, Salon I
Plants will be a critical component of future Bioregenerative Life Support Systems that will be implemented on long duration space missions. We describe here a novel microgravity-rated plant growth apparatus that is targeted for use on the International Space Station (ISS) in the 2004-2005 timeframe. The system contains six modular units capable of utilizing either porous tube and/or substrate-based nutrient delivery approaches. Heat pulse moisture sensors are used to both monitor and control root zone wetness levels. In addition, a fixed-feed water delivery algorithm is available which meters out appropriate levels of water based upon plant life cycle stage. Fifty miniature color cameras will image the plant specimens throughout the experiment, permitting real-time assessments of plant performance over time. Alternative experimental strategies suitable for implementation on the ISS are discussed.
