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Completed TRL 6 (started at 4, targeting 6)
The Microgravity Test of Autonomous Multiple Cycle Farming (AMFC) Systemdemonstration will evaluate theoperation of the system’s components in microgravity. The AMCF incorporatesa growing system, software, and graphical user interface to growplants with little human interventionover multiple cycles. It delivers seeds through a robotic arm and usescapillary forces to supply a hydrating nutrient solution to the seeds. Data will be collected on multiple parabolic flight teststo validate the mechanical system and offer a pathway toward scaling the technology for large-scalein-situ spacefarming.
Problem Statement
As space exploration missions increase in duration, solutions for growing food autonomously and reliably in microgravity become increasingly important. Food growth systems need to also operate without compromising valuable time or energy from other spacecraft functions in order to maximize efficiency.
Technology Maturation
The AMCF has already successfully completed ground testing. Parabolic flight testingwill demonstrate the capabilities of the seed tray, effector, and water delivery system in microgravity. It will also provide data to scale the system for future use on the Moon. The technology will be at TRL 8 after testing.
This autonomous plant incubator has the potential to advance large-scale, in-situ space farming. It removes the need for astronauts to tend to plant growth and allows for the growth of multiple crop types. A food growth system with a minimal resource strain could be highly valuable on long-duration missions, extended stays on the Moon, and aboard the International Space Station. This would benefit NASA missions and the commercial space industry.
Future Customers
•Future NASA missions such as the Artemis program
•Extended stays on the Moon and aboard the International Space Station
•Commercial space industry
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This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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