CROPS: A Leap in Space Biological Experiments

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CROPS stands for Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies which is an unmanned experimental module designed to develop ISRO’s capabilities for growing and sustaining plants in space. CROPS first mission (CROPS – 1) is designed to demonstrate germination of a seed and growth of plant up to two leaves stage in space. It is an airtight container of diameter 300mm and height 450mm simulating earth like environment in space except gravity.

CROPS – 1 was flown in PSLV C60 mission in POEM 4 payload to demonstrate germination of a seed and sustenance up to two leaves stage in space for 5 to 7 days. Cowpea (Scientific name: Vigna Unguiculata) was chosen based on ground trials on a variety of seeds due to its shorter germination time. 

On the fourth day, seeds sprouting out from the enclosed tissue strips was observed. On the fifth day, two leaves were visible on spouted seeds indicating successful accomplishment of the objectives.

ISRO News

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