NASA growing vegetables in space: astronauts about to harvest lettuce on ISS

Astronauts are preparing to harvest red romaine lettuce from a specially designed vegetable production system on the International Space Station. This system uses clear, flexible walls to trap humidity and prevent overheating, while Kevlar-lined plant pillows contain seeds, fertilizer, and clay mixtures to facilitate oxygen and water access to roots. Water is injected into the pillows to stimulate germination, with five out of six pillows successfully germinating. The plants will be frozen and swabbed for bacteria testing, with samples sent back to Earth for analysis in September.

What is the purpose of the cooling system in the space station's vegetable production setup?

• To increase the growth rate of the plants

• To enhance the flavor of the lettuce

• To prevent the plants from overheating

• To reduce the energy consumption of the station

What is the primary function of the clear, flexible walls in the plant growth apparatus?

• To protect from space debris

• To allow sunlight to enter

• To trap humidity inside

• To provide structural support

What materials are included in the plant pillows to support plant growth?

• Seeds, fertilizer pellets, and clay mixtures

• Soil, water, and nutrients

• Peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite

• Sand, gravel, and compost

How is water delivered to the plants in the space station's growth system?

• By spraying onto the leaves

• Injected directly into the pillows

• Via a hydroponic solution

• Through a drip irrigation system

What will happen to the plants after they are harvested on the space station?

• They will be sent to another space station

• They will be frozen and tested for bacteria

• They will be composted on the station

• They will be eaten by the astronauts