Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2002
Abstract
Power loss is a common failure in controlled environments. The duration of power loss can be several days – and even weeks – in space environments. Long-duration power loss and the resulting darkness can cause plants to die unless remedial measures are taken during the power outage. Emergency back-up power from batteries could provide low light and reduced air temperature. Plant metabolism and growth are reduced in low temperature. As metabolism slows, energy requirements are reduced and less light is needed. The temperature should be maintained above the chilling temperature for the plant, which is species dependent. The addition of light will allow the plant to continue to expend energy on maintenance and some growth. Here we show that low light and cool temperatures can be used to maintain plants through the 14.7 days on the dark side of the Moon. Growth resumes immediately after the light is restored.
Recommended Citation
Chard, Julie K.; Akula, Giridhar; and Bugbee, Bruce, "Failure Analysis Research Summary: Mitigating the Effects of Prolonged Darkness With Low Temperature and Low Light" (2002). NASA. Paper 2.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/cpl_nasa/2