Astrobotany: Can Plants Grow Bigger in Outer Space?

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The discussion centers on whether increased solar irradiance in outer space could lead to larger plant growth compared to Earth. While the solar irradiance at Earth's atmosphere is about 1361 Watts/m², it decreases to around 1000 Watts/m² on the surface. The potential for larger plants in space is complicated by factors such as gravity, which affects structural support, and the harmful components of outer space light, particularly UV radiation. Participants highlight that different plants have varying light requirements, with some thriving in low light. Concerns are raised about the risks of excessive light intensity, which can damage plants, and the challenges of maintaining optimal conditions for growth, including water, CO2, and nutrients. The consensus leans towards skepticism regarding the feasibility of growing larger plants in space without significant genetic modifications or protective measures against harmful radiation. Overall, the idea of utilizing photovoltaic panels for energy and using controlled growth lights indoors is suggested as a more viable approach than direct sunlight exposure in outer space.
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TL;DR Summary
Can plants in outer space grow bigger because of increased solar irradiance?
According to Wikipedia Solar Irradiance at Earth's atmosphere is 1361 Watts / meter squared, compared to approximately 1000 Watts / meter squared on the Earth's surface (depending on where you are). (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_irradiance).

My question is, does more sunlight mean larger plants? In other words, if I put a plant in orbit, will it grow bigger than it would on Earth. From what I read, less gravity means the plant grows less support structures. My question is, more specifically, will the fruit of the plant grow larger with more sunlight in an outer space environment?

Let's assume that the plant has adequate water, CO2, soil nutrients, and that we can somehow regulate the temperature to an ideal temperature for the plant.

Thanks.
 
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Which plants?
Some like low light levels.
Components of outer space light (like UV) may be injurious to some are all plants.
You might try looking through the NASA website. They have a lot of obscure space associated info there.

If you are interested in just light levels, some horticulturalist has probably looked at higher levels of illumination.
 
dansmith170 said:
TL;DR Summary: Can plants in outer space grow bigger because of increased solar irradiance?

My question is, does more sunlight mean larger plants?
I think the first few experiments on this question did not end well for the plants...

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https://www.fastcompany.com/3057288...m-near-las-vegas-provides-power-even-at-night
 
BillTre said:
Which plants?
Some like low light levels.
Components of outer space light (like UV) may be injurious to some are all plants.
You might try looking through the NASA website. They have a lot of obscure space associated info there.

If you are interested in just light levels, some horticulturalist has probably looked at higher levels of illumination.
Thanks Bill, I'll see what I can find on NASA's website. I did try to research already, but without many results. I'll take another look. If anyone finds any papers on this topic, please post.
 
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dansmith170 said:
My question is, does more sunlight mean larger plants?
I can't say much about the gravity part, but this spring I've ruined a batch of seedlings with a slightly stronger growth light.
It was 'cold' light (LED), so they were not burnt. It was just the amount of light.

Ps.: giving it a bit more thought... Decent part of that extra intensity is pretty dangerous (short wavelength: UV and worse) radiation. Sunlight 'outside' is a big sterilizer, and once you got rid of all the nasty parts, you will be back around the 1000 W/m2 range.
Also, you'll have lot of problem with the length of daily irradiation what's used as a calendar for many plants. Same for the colour of light...

So, I would give the question a solid 'no', unless some serious genetic engineering got involved, like sunscreen-producing and such o0)

Ps of Ps: after giving even more thoughts to this interesting problem, if it's me I would not even try to grow anything 'out there' in direct sunlight. It would be all about PV panels outside and growth lights inside :doh:
 
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dansmith170 said:
TL;DR Summary: Can plants in outer space grow bigger because of increased solar irradiance?

Let's assume that the plant has adequate water, CO2, soil nutrients, and that we can somehow regulate the temperature to an ideal temperature for the plant.
Basic assumption I guess.
But how would one know the 'ideal' water, CO2, nutrients, temperature that would be necessary for the plant with added light.

Plants are finicky.
Too much water and they could become susceptible to fungal diseases.
Too dry and they can become stunted and seed early.
Of course, exceptions apply - ie water lilies grow in water for example.

Here is an interesting thought - too much sunlight and the plant becomes too hot.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ed...-bolting-what-it-means-when-a-plant-bolts.htm
 
BillTre said:
Which plants?
Rightly so.
 
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