In a groundbreaking moment for Indian space science and sustainable space living, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has made history by becoming a space farmer, successfully cultivating moong (green gram) and methi (fenugreek) aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
As part of a collaborative research mission with ISRO and international space agencies, Shukla is leading an experiment to study seed germination and plant growth in microgravity. His successful cultivation of Indian pulses and greens in orbit represents a crucial step toward future space farming and self-sustaining life support systems for long-duration space missions.
The moong and methi plants, chosen for their high nutritional value and fast growth cycles, are being monitored in controlled growth chambers. Data collected will help scientists understand how microgravity affects root development, photosynthesis, and nutrient absorption—insights critical for growing food on the Moon, Mars, or deep space missions.
Speaking from the ISS, Shukla shared, “It’s surreal to watch seeds from Earth sprout in space. This research is not just about growing plants, it’s about growing hope for future interplanetary life.”
ISRO officials have praised Shukla’s work, calling it a milestone in India’s contribution to astro-agriculture. The mission is also inspiring young scientists across India and the world to explore new frontiers where space, science, and sustainability meet.
With his pioneering efforts, Shubhanshu Shukla is not only charting new territory in orbit—but also sowing the seeds for humanity’s future beyond Earth.
