Researchers across Asia and beyond have unveiled an ambitious roadmap to develop space-based agricultural systems capable of sustaining human colonies on the moon and Mars, with potential Earth-based applications addressing global food security. The initiative combines advanced hydroponics, genetic crop engineering, and closed-loop life support systems designed for extraterrestrial environments.
Key projects include experimental rice varieties being tested in simulated lunar conditions at research stations in the Chinese mainland, and vertical farming prototypes developed through international collaborations. "These systems must operate with 90% less water than traditional agriculture while surviving radiation and low gravity," said Dr. Lin Wei, lead scientist at the Asian Space Biology Consortium.
The roadmap targets operational lunar greenhouse prototypes by 2028, with Mars-ready systems planned for the 2030s. Parallel Earth applications already show promise, with drought-resistant crops from the research boosting yields in arid regions of Central Asia this year.
