The issue of food security is a long-term, fundamental, and strategic challenge that must never be overlooked. To address this critical problem, we must rely on continuous scientific and technological advancement, which itself is a long-term and essential endeavor. Although space breeding is a relatively new concept, it has already demonstrated its potential and vitality. It not only leverages international expertise but also needs to be adapted to China's unique national conditions, requiring sustained support and investment.
As a leading force in the research, development, and industrialization of high-tech space products, Shenzhou Space Group aims to bring the daily necessities used by astronauts aboard the space station down to Earth, making them accessible for everyday life. This initiative opens up endless possibilities for improving human life quality and sustainability.
Space breeding, also known as space mutation breeding, involves sending seeds or plant seedlings into space where they are exposed to unique environmental conditions such as cosmic radiation and microgravity. These factors can induce genetic mutations, leading to the development of new plant varieties with desirable traits. After returning to Earth, scientists screen these seeds over multiple generations, selecting those with promising characteristics for further cultivation.
On past manned space missions, various seeds such as corn, peppers, eggplants, tomatoes, and peas were carried into space. Upon return, these seeds undergo extensive screening across more than four generations before being selected for hybridization. Once their traits stabilize, they go through regional trials and field demonstrations before finally becoming space-grown vegetables.
To date, China has launched over 20 satellites and Shenzhou spacecraft, carrying thousands of crop seeds and microbial strains. This effort has led to the creation of numerous new plant varieties, many of which have been widely adopted in agricultural production.
According to Shenzhou Space Group, space-grown vegetables often exhibit larger fruits, higher yields, and comparable growth periods to conventional vegetables. Their vitamin content is more than twice that of regular produce, and they contain significantly higher levels of beneficial trace elements. Additionally, space vegetables are more flavorful, have better resistance to pests and diseases, and offer a superior taste experience.
Aerospace breeding represents an emerging area of agricultural innovation with distinct Chinese characteristics. Though still in its early stages, it shows great promise, much like biotechnology and nuclear applications in agriculture. As China continues to face food security challenges, space technology-based breeding could become a powerful tool to boost grain production and ensure food stability for the growing population.
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