Brief Description of Available Projects in Horticulture
NASA is keenly interested in and has been conducting research on growing crops in space and on Mars as a source of food for astronauts. One proposed project involves growing crops under different kinds of artificial lighting. It offers a choice of working in several research areas: 1) Comparing the effectiveness of fluorescent lighting and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting; 2) Comparing the effectiveness of different kinds of LED lighting; and 3) Growing different kinds of crops.
The second proposed project involves growing crops in different kinds of Martian “simulated” soils. It offers a choice of working in several research areas: 1) comparing the effects of different “simulated” Martian soils; 2) comparing the effects of different “simulated” Martian soil formulations; and 3) growing different kinds of crops. The aim of the projects is to provide the student with research and learning opportunities related to space biology, plant physiology, and horticulture. It is anticipated that results from the projects would provide information on the effects of light quality or different “simulated” Martian soil components on crop growth and the use of alternative crops in space. Qualified students should have an interest and background knowledge in botany or horticulture.
See the related UH News Story and video highlighting a former Space Grant Fellow’s work with Dr. Kobayashi: How Bright is the Future of Space Food?
Contact information for Dr. Kobayashi:
Phone: (808) 956-7876, email: kentko@hawaii.edu
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