ISRO’s Crops Experiment 

ISRO has achieved a significant milestone as cowpea seeds (Vigna unguiculata), sent into orbit, have grown their first leaves as part of the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS) experiment.

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Key Highlights 

• CROPS Module: An unmanned experimental unit designed to explore plant growth and sustainability in space.
• It aims to develop ISRO’s capabilities for growing flora in microgravity conditions.
• Conducted By: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
• Eight cowpea seeds were sent to orbit to study germination and development up to the two-leaf stage.
• The experiment, lasting 5–7 days, demonstrates seed germination in microgravity conditions.
• Importance: The results could contribute significantly to ensuring food security for astronauts on long-duration space missions and advancing India's space exploration capabilities.