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NASA on Wednesday shared a picture of a zinnia plant, which was cultivated aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2015, as a part of their experiment to study plant growth in space. The experiment was started by NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren and the sole reason behind it was to see how vegetation would grow in space as it would be a long term aid to humans. It can be a great source of food for astronauts during long trips into space.
Picture:
NASA shared the picture of the flower on Instagram and wrote, “This zinnia was grown in orbit as part of the veggie facility on the International Space Station. Scientists have been studying plants in space since the 1970s, but this special The experiment was started.” By NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren on the @ISS in 2015.
NASA also explained that their agenda behind growing plants in space was to understand how crops would grow there and to provide a valuable source of fresh food on long-term missions to the Moon.
“@NASAAstronauts have grown lettuce, tomatoes and chili peppers on the ISS, among other vegetables – many more to come,” he continued.
The zinnia captured in the image shows off its light orange petals in full bloom. However, what really captivates the viewer is the glimpse of Earth, faintly visible amid the vastness of space, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the surrounding darkness.
People’s reaction:
Netizens flooded the post with comments, expressing both admiration and curiosity, with the words “Shame on my houseplants” resonating with them.
People were captivated by the incredible beauty of reviving life in an otherwise lifeless environment.
A user asked about the use of fertilizers and asked for detailed information on which fertilizers were used and how they were used.
Another user, impressed by the concept of plants thriving in space without a readily available oxygen supply, asked about the medium used to grow these plants and the secret behind their survival in such conditions.
