Chinese scientists have achieved a breakthrough in agricultural innovation with the development of first-generation 'space highland barley,' leveraging cutting-edge satellite technology to address food security challenges. Seeds from the reusable Shijian-19 satellite, exposed to cosmic conditions during a 15-day orbital mission, are now undergoing ground breeding in Shaanxi Province.
The project focuses on cultivating barley varieties resistant to extreme temperatures, pests, and climate fluctuations—traits critical for Tibet's high-altitude farms. Originating from Shannan City in the Xizang Autonomous Region, the seeds were selected for their high-yield potential and adaptability.
"Space breeding opens new doors for sustainable agriculture in challenging environments," said Dawa Sangzhub of Shannan's agricultural technology center. "This collaboration bridges aerospace innovation and traditional farming to uplift rural communities."
Space breeding involves exposing seeds to microgravity and cosmic radiation to induce beneficial genetic mutations. The Xi'an National Civil Aerospace Industrial Base, coordinating the project, notes this method accelerates the development of resilient crops compared to conventional techniques.
With joint analysis by aerospace engineers and agronomists already underway, the initiative establishes a unique partnership between Shaanxi's technical expertise and Shannan's cultivation experience. The Shijian-19 satellite, launched in September 2024 and recovered in October, marks a milestone in China’s reusable space technology applications.
