The new ‘space age’ is helping the horticulture industry, according to astrophysicist, journalist and broadcaster Sarah Cruddas.
Speaking at FPJ Live in Warwickshire last week, Cruddas said experiments carried out in space stations are relevant to producers back on Earth.
The current use of sensors to assist plant growth in space could be developed by growers on the ground, she said.
Satellites circling Earth can be used to map arable land and assess soil health for farmers, Cruddas added.
“Space exploration is helping to inspire the next generation of growers,” she said. “British astronaut Tim Peake took rocket seeds into space, which were brought back to be planted by school children on Earth. Events like this help generate excitement among the next generation about growing. And the space industry’s ‘Train Like An Astronaut’ programme encouraged children to stay fit by eating more fruit and vegetables.”
Growing things in space is becoming more important with every mission, said Cruddas.
“We go into space to try and improve life back on Earth,” she said. “The space industry is here to help the produce industry.”
