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Occurrence of Equatorial F Region Irregularities: Evidence for Tropospheric Seeding

We present a new gap-free version of the seasonal and longitudinal 0 (s/l) variations of P(sub EFI), the equatorial F region irregularity (EFI) occurrence probability, based on data from the AE-E spacecraft. The agreement of this and three earlier partial P(sub EFI) patterns verifies all four. We reinterpret another earlier gap-ridden pattern, that of D(bar)(sub RSF), a topside ionogram index of average darkening by range spread F. We compare it with P(sub EFI) and, using ionosonde radio science considerations, we conclude that D(bar)(sub RSF) = P(sub EFI) times a factor depending on the average number of topside plasma bubbles visible to the ionosonde. The s/l variations of D(baar)(sub RSF) thus imply s/l variations in the average spacing of bubbles, whose seeds have an occurrence probability pattern P(sub seed). For discussion we assume P(sub EFI) = P(sub inst)P(sub seed) is the pattern of F region instability. The P(sub EFI) pattern, which is by definition independent of seed and/or bubble spacing, is far too complex to be explained by the dominant paradigm, that of changes in P(sub inst) by simple changes in the F region altitude and/or north-south asymmetry. We examine evidence behind this dominance, and find it unconvincing. Both the asymmetry and sunset-node/altitude hypotheses of 1984 and 1985, respectively, seem to be partly based on misunderstood data, and their features appear displaced in time and space from those of our repeatable P(sub EFI) pattern. In contrast, if P(sub seed) variations influence the P(sub EFI) pattern and depend on thermospheric gravity waves from tropospheric convection near the dip equator, then the seasonal maxima (minima) Of P(sub EFI) could be explained, since they all occur above relatively warm (cold) surface features, where convection is maximal (minimal). Also, the hypothesis of the dominance of the P(sub seed) term could explain an unusual December/January P(sub EFI) maximum in the deep, wide, normal Pacific minimum in the one data set obtained in El Nino years. Based on the experiments we consider, we predict that the s/l variations Of P(sub seed) will be found to be similar to those of P(sub EFI) and largely to explain them. Finally, we find reasons, based on the similarity of the D(sub RSF) variations to s/l patterns of the average scintillation index, for not using, as is commonly done, such scintillation patterns as substitutes for P(sub EFI) or P(sub inst) patterns.

McClure, J. P.↗

Super-optimal CO2 reduces seed yield but not vegetative growth in wheat

Although terrestrial atmospheric CO2 levels will not reach 1000 micromoles mol-1 (0.1%) for decades, CO2 levels in growth chambers and greenhouses routinely exceed that concentration. CO2 levels in life support systems in space can exceed 10000 micromoles mol-1(1%). Numerous studies have examined CO2 effects up to 1000 micromoles mol-1, but biochemical measurements indicate that the beneficial effects of CO2 can continue beyond this concentration. We studied the effects of near-optimal (approximately 1200 micromoles mol-1) and super-optimal CO2 levels (2400 micromoles mol-1) on yield of two cultivars of hydroponically grown wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in 12 trials in growth chambers. Increasing CO2 from sub-optimal to near-optimal (350-1200 micromoles mol-1) increased vegetative growth by 25% and seed yield by 15% in both cultivars. Yield increases were primarily the result of an increased number of heads per square meter. Further elevation of CO2 to 2500 micromoles mol-1 reduced seed yield by 22% (P < 0.001) in cv. Veery-10 and by 15% (P < 0.001) in cv. USU-Apogee. Super-optimal CO2 did not decrease the number of heads per square meter, but reduced seeds per head by 10% and mass per seed by 11%. The toxic effect of CO2 was similar over a range of light levels from half to full sunlight. Subsequent trials revealed that super-optimal CO2 during the interval between 2 wk before and after anthesis mimicked the effect of constant super-optimal CO2. Furthermore, near-optimal CO2 during the same interval mimicked the effect of constant near-optimal CO2. Nutrient concentration of leaves and heads was not affected by CO2. These results suggest that super-optimal CO2 inhibits some process that occurs near the time of seed set resulting in decreased seed set, seed mass, and yield.

NASA Discipline Life Support Systems↗

Remote Recession Measurements of Wire-Seeded PICA Samples in an Arc-Jet Flow

Various methods for remote recession sensing of PICA have been developed and several seeding methods have been tested. The most recent method involved seeding the ablator with wires fed to the sample from the backside with a defined amount of PICA left towards the upstream front of the sample. This seed method mimics the installation of in-depth thermocouples as they are frequently used in ground testing and flight. Arc-jet tests were conducted in the NASA Langley HYMETS facility at a heat flux of 320 W/sq.cm. The emission of the post-shock layer was observed in spectral resolution from the side along an optical axis perpendicular to the arc-jet flow and from the front, looking at the sample surface from an upstream position. Various metallic seed materials with different melting points were used. In addition to the emission spectroscopy measurements, the samples were monitored during the tests through pyrometry and videography. The time resolved response of the seeded material is described and compared to earlier tests with different seeding methods. The combination of seed materials was found to be critical for the selection of emission signatures characteristic for the material recession which can be isolated in the final emission spectra.

Winter, Michael↗

Conceptual Model of Autonomous Seed Germination Habitat for Mars Mission

As human space exploration extends to Mars, the ability to germinate seeds in extraterrestrial environments is becoming a necessity. Recent technological feats such as the development of the European Modular Cultivation System (EMCS) have made botany experiments possible on the International Space Station (ISS). Despite preliminary designs, a biocompatible plant life support system capable of traveling to Mars has yet to be developed. This study focuses on two preparatory measures regarding seed germination in spaceflight: analysis of seed dormancy protocols and compact autonomous habitat development.The objective of this project is to conceptualize a habitat capable of preserving arabidopsis plant seeds on a long duration spaceflight for the purpose of germinating the first plants on Mars. The proposed container will require a compact, low wattage system to provide gas ventilation, artificial light, and water. A visualization system will also need to be developed in order to monitor seed germination remotely. In order to test the effects of dormancy durations on plant viability, we will conduct a ground study to monitor seed germination in seeds which have been dormant for three, six, nine, and twelve months. We will also compare the effects of different sterilization procedures. The results of this study will be instrumental in developing a viable procedure for transferring the first living plants to Mars.

Peter, Jonah↗

Changes in Plants Developed from Imbibed Seeds Irradiated by Simulated Solar Particle Events

One of the major concerns for long-term exploration missions beyond the Earth’s magnetosphere is radiation risk primarily from solar particle events (SPEs) and galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). With the goal of manned Mars exploration, the production of fresh food during long duration space missions may provide nutritional supplementation and benefit astronauts’ behavioral health. However, the effects of space radiation on plants and plant propagules have not been sufficiently investigated and characterized. In this study, we evaluated the effect of simulated GCRs on dry seeds of mizuna mustard, ‘Outredgeous’ red romaine lettuce, and ‘Red Robin’ dwarf tomato. Seeds were exposed to various doses of simulated GCRs (0, 40, and 80 cGy), either acutely or at a low dose rate (LDR), using the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) facility at Brookhaven National Lab (BNL). Control and irradiated seeds were planted and maintained under space-vehicle relevant controlled environment conditions. Plant/fruit morphometrics and edible fresh mass were measured. In addition, nutrient analyses were performed for both mizuna and ripe tomatoe fruit. Seedlings from irradiated seeds (both 40 cGy and 80 cGy) showed significant changes in cotyledon development, but not in root length or morphology. Interestingly, significant changes in vitamin content were found in mizuna grown from 80 cGy (LDR) irradiated seeds. In addition, 80 cGy (LDR) simulated GCRs significantly affected lettuce and tomato seed quality, delayed tomato fruiting, and reduced the total yield of tomato. Generally, compared to 80 cGy, 40 cGy (LDR) of simulated GCRs displayed some impacts to the seeds and seedlings, but to a much lesser degree. (This study was supported by NASA Human Research Program.)

J.T. Richards↗

Exposure of Plant Seeds to the Space Environment outside the International Space Station

If crop seeds are to be stored on space vehicles for long-duration missions, the effects of the space environment on the seeds must be understood for developing mitigation strategies to prevent seed degradation. The MISSE-Seed project was designed to investigate the effects of space exposure on seed quality and storage. The project also tested the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) platform for exposing biological samples to the space environment and evaluated the capability of a newly designed passive sample containment vessel for the provision of acceptable storage conditions for seeds, or other biological samples, to be preserved upon exposure to the space environment outside the ISS. The experiment was launched to the ISS on NG-15and returned to Earth aboard SpX-24. The specimens consisted of eleven seed varieties (Lettuce, Scarlet Frills, Amara, Garnet Giant, Pac Choi, Radish, Mizuna, Tomato, Cauliflower, Pepper, and Arabidopsis). The exposure lasted eight months outside the ISS in the MISSE hardware at the Zenith position. Data-loggers and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were included in each container to record the environmental data. Temperature profiles and radiation/UV exposure data were also provided by Aegis Aerospace, the MISSE Implementation Partner. In this presentation, the hardware and experimental design, the environmental profiles, and the results of post-flight germination tests will be presented.

Jeffrey T Richards↗

Exposure of Plant Seeds to the Space Environment Outside the International Space Station

If crop seeds are to be stored on space vehicles for long-duration missions, the effects of the space environment on the seeds must be understood for developing mitigation strategies to prevent seed degradation. The MISSE-Seed project was designed to investigate the effects of space exposure on seed quality and storage. The project also tested the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) platform for exposing biological samples to the space environment and evaluated the capability of a newly designed passive sample containment vessel for the provision of acceptable storage conditions for seeds, or other biological samples, to be preserved upon exposure to the space environment outside the ISS. The experiment was launched to the ISS on NG-15and returned to Earth aboard SpX-24. The specimens consisted of eleven seed varieties (Lettuce, Scarlet Frills, Amara, Garnet Giant, Pac Choi, Radish, Mizuna, Tomato, Cauliflower, Pepper, and Arabidopsis). The exposure lasted eight months outside the ISS in the MISSE hardware at the Zenith position. Data-loggers and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were included in each container to record the environmental data. Temperature profiles and radiation/UV exposure data were also provided by Aegis Aerospace, the MISSE Implementation Partner. In this presentation, the hardware and experimental design, the environmental profiles, and the results of post-flight germination tests will be presented.

Jeffrey T Richards↗

Exposure of Plant Seeds to the Space Environment Outside the International Space Station

Crop seeds may prove to be a vital component of future long-term spaceflight missions, and the impacts of extended exposure on seed degradation is not well understood. The MISSE-Seed project was designed to investigate the effects of space exposure on seed quality and storage. The project also served as a test of biological materials aboard the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) platform, and evaluated the capability of a newly designed passive sample containment vessel for the provision of acceptable storage conditions for seed and other biological samples to be preserved upon exposure to the space environment outside the ISS. MISSE-Seed was launched to the ISS on NG-15 in July of 2021 and returned to Earth aboard SpX-24 after approximately 8 months of exposure to the space environment. The specimens consisted of eleven seed varieties (Lettuce, Scarlet Frills, Amara, Garnet Giant, Pac Choi, Radish, Mizuna, Tomato, Cauliflower, Pepper, and Arabidopsis). Data-loggers and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were included in each container to record environmental data. Temperature profiles and radiation/UV exposure data were also provided by Aegis Aerospace, the MISSE Implementation Partner. Hardware and experimental design, environmental profiles, and post-flight germination and growth results will be presented.

Alexander D Meyers↗

Seeding Method for Velocimetry and Visualization of Supersonic Retropropulsion Nozzle Plumes

In the current work, the “Venturi seeder” method for nozzle plumes is improved and studied to determine suitability for particle image velocimetry. This seeding method involves independently pressurizing the primary flow path and a separate seed liquid reservoir, connecting them at the throat of a Venturi contraction upstream of the nozzle. The pressure differential at the throat causes the liquid to enter the nozzle channel where it is atomized into particles by strong shearing forces. This new seeding system was characterized by conducting a series of diagnostics using different exit nozzle pressure ratios and seed reservoir pressures. Shadowgraph imaging confirmed the nozzle plumes to be underexpanded jets. A particle sizing device determined that generated DEHS oil particles had median aerodynamic diameters of 0.67, 0.69, and 0.73 μm for seed liquid reservoir pressure supplies of 0.67, 0.60, and 0.93 MPa and primary flow path pressures of 0.67, 0.76, and 0.93 MPa measured downstream of the Venturi throat, respectively. These diameters were within the threshold for acceptable response time in typical gas flows (≤ 1 μm). PIV experiments were conducted on the nozzle plume for all presented cases; mean axial and transverse velocities appeared as expected for the underexpanded jet structure, including the Mach disk and re-acceleration regions. Additional sizing analysis based on the particle response times across the normal shock again showed particle diameters to be well less than 1 μm for all cases. The results suggest that this method is an inexpensive and relatively simple solution to the problem of seeding nozzle plumes. The method will be used in testing of supersonic retropropulsion models in the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel at The NASA Langley Research Center in 2022.

particle image velocimetry↗

Seeding considerations for an LV system in a large transonic wind tunnel

When it was decided to use a laser velocimeter to measure the properties of propellers, seeding was a great concern since large particles fail to flow and small ones are too small to be seen. Many methods were tried and weeded out by using a Malvern particle sizer. The most promising ones were tested in the tunnel and the laser velocimeter (LV) measurements compared to theoretical values of veocity as the particle approached a blunt nose body along a stagnation streamline. Data obtained from the LV system were compared with the one dimensional particle lag calculation. This figure showed the theoretical velocity over the blunt nose and a velocity profile for 5 um particles. This indicated the particles were approximately 5 um. The seeding method is shown. The seed was atomized by 2 seeders run with all 12 available atomizer jets on. The atomizer seed traveled from these two seeders through four 1 inch tubes 20 feet long to the plenum chamber where this cluster of tubes injected the seed into the air stream. The tubes were located 60 feet from the model and could be moved only by shutting the tunnel down. Future seeding plans are shown.

Freedman, R. J.↗

Radiobiological experiments with plant seeds aboard the biosatellite Cosmos 1887

The effects of spaceflight factors on the seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana and Crepis capillaris were studied. The seeds were located inside the satellite in an open space, protected with aluminum foil and also exposed without the foil cover. When the seeds were in open space without any protection, their viability was found to be suppressed; the survival rate and fertility of plants grown from these seeds were also diminished. An increase in the frequency of chromosome aberrations (CA) and in the number of multiple injuries was registered in this case. Experiments with the aluminum foil shielding showed a decrease in the suppression of the seeds' viability, but mutational changes were found to be even more increased, while the survival rate and fertility of the plants decreased. An increase in the thickness of shielding resulted in a decrease in the effects up to the level of the control, except for the effects connected with CA and fertility of the plants. Analysis of the results shows that these impairments can be ascribed to the action of single heavy charged particles (HCP). The seeds can thus be regarded as an integral biological 'dosimeter' which allows estimation of the total effects of radiation, ecological and biological factors.

Benton, E. V.↗

Oxygen requirement of germinating flax seeds

Plant experiments in earth orbit are typically prepared on the ground and germinated in orbit to study gravity effects on the developing seedlings. Germination requires the breakdown of storage compounds, and this metabolism depends upon respiration, making oxygen one of the limiting factors in seed germination. In microgravity lack of run-off of excess water requires careful testing of water dispensation and oxygen availability. In preparation for a shuttle experiment (MICRO on STS-107) we studied germination and growth of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) seedlings in the developed hardware (Magnetic Field Chamber, MFC). We tested between four to 32 seeds per chamber (air volume=14 mL) and after 36 h measured the root length. At 90 microliters O2 per seed (32 seeds/chamber), the germination decreased from 94 to 69%, and the root length was reduced by 20%, compared to 8 seeds per chamber. Based on the percent germination and root length obtained in controlled gas mixtures between 3.6 and 21.6% O2 we determined the lower limit of reliable germination to be 10 vol. % O2 at atmospheric pressure. Although the oxygen available in the MFC's can support the intended number of seeds, the data show that seed storage and microgravity-related limitations may reduce germination. c2003 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of COSPAR.

NASA Discipline Plant Biology↗

Oxidative processes in soybean and pea seeds: effect of light, temperature, and water content

Oxidative processes are probable determinants of longevity of seeds in storage. Measurements of actual oxygen uptake rates were made for soybean and pea seeds as a comparison of short and long lived seeds when light, temperature, and moisture contents were varied. In both peas and soybeans, the oxygen uptake was depressed at low temperatures (<16 degrees C) and low water contents (< 0.25 gram H2O per gram dry weight). Apparent activation energies under these conditions are very high, while apparent activation energies of seeds at higher water contents and at temperatures greater than 22 degrees C are much less. Light enhances the level of oxygen uptake in pea, but reduces the level of oxygen uptake in soybean. The complexities of the interactions of oxygen uptake with environmental conditions in soybean compared to pea suggest that oxidative processes occur in soybean at low water contents, but are essentially absent in pea. It is suggested that the additional oxidative processes in soybean with moisture contents between 0.10 and 0.24 gram per gram may contribute to the poorer longevity of soybean seed compared to pea seed.

NASA Program Space Biology↗

Radiobiological experiments with plant seeds aboard the biosatellite Kosmos 1887

The effects of spaceflight factors on the seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana and Crepis capillaris were studied provided with various protective measures: the seeds were located inside the satellite and in open space, protected with aluminium foil and also exposed without the foil cover. When the seeds were in open space without any protection, their viability was found to be suppressed; the survival rate and fertility of plants grown from these seeds were also diminished. An increase in the frequency of chromosome aberrations (CA) and in the number of multiple injuries was registered in this case. Experiments with the aluminium foil shielding showed a decrease in the suppression of the seeds' viability, but mutational changes were found to be even more increased, while the survival and fertility of the plants decreased. An increase in the thickness of shielding resulted in a decrease in the effects up to the level of the control, except for the effects connected with CA and fertility of the plants. Analysis of the results shows that these impairments can be ascribed to the action of single heavy charged particles (HCP). The seeds can be thus regarded as an integral biological 'dosimeter' which allows estimation of the total effects of radiation, ecological and biological factors.

Cosmos 1887 Project↗

Validation of Helicopter Gear Condition Indicators Using Seeded Fault Tests

A "seeded fault test" in support of a rotorcraft condition based maintenance program (CBM), is an experiment in which a component is tested with a known fault while health monitoring data is collected. These tests are performed at operating conditions comparable to operating conditions the component would be exposed to while installed on the aircraft. Performance of seeded fault tests is one method used to provide evidence that a Health Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) can replace current maintenance practices required for aircraft airworthiness. Actual in-service experience of the HUMS detecting a component fault is another validation method. This paper will discuss a hybrid validation approach that combines in service-data with seeded fault tests. For this approach, existing in-service HUMS flight data from a naturally occurring component fault will be used to define a component seeded fault test. An example, using spiral bevel gears as the targeted component, will be presented. Since the U.S. Army has begun to develop standards for using seeded fault tests for HUMS validation, the hybrid approach will be mapped to the steps defined within their Aeronautical Design Standard Handbook for CBM. This paper will step through their defined processes, and identify additional steps that may be required when using component test rig fault tests to demonstrate helicopter CI performance. The discussion within this paper will provide the reader with a better appreciation for the challenges faced when defining a seeded fault test for HUMS validation.

Dempsey, Paula↗

Changes in Plants Developed from Imbibed Seeds Irradiated by Simulated Solar Particle Events

One of the major concerns for long-term exploration missions beyond the Earth’s magnetosphere is radiation risk primarily from solar particle events (SPEs) and galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). With the goal of manned Mars exploration, the production of fresh food during long duration space missions may provide nutritional supplementation and benefit astronauts’ behavioral health. However, the effects of space radiation on plants and plant propagules have not been sufficiently investigated and characterized. In this study, we evaluated the effect of simulated SPEs on imbibed seeds of mizuna mustard, ‘Outredgeous’ red romaine lettuce, and ‘Red Robin’ dwarf tomato. Seeds were exposed to various doses of simulated SPEs (0, 40, 80 cGy, and 200 cGy), either acutely or at a low dose rate (LDR only for 40 and 80 cGy doses), using the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory (NSRL) facility at Brookhaven National Lab (BNL). Simulated SPE exposure was achieved using sequential exposures to protons with a broad energy range at 50-150 MeV/n. Control and irradiated seeds were planted either onto 0.5% MS-based agar plates containing required nutrients for early seedling analysis, or in peat plugs/pots for 28 day (mizuna and lettuce) and 91 day (tomato) grow outs. All plants were maintained under space-vehicle relevant controlled environment conditions at 3000 ppm CO2, 50% RH, and 23°C, and a 16/8 h photoperiod with 300 μmol·m-2·s-1 photosynthetically active radiation. Plant/fruit morphometrics and edible fresh mass were measured. In addition, nutrient analyses were performed for both mizuna and ripe tomatoe fruit. Seedlings from irradiated seeds (both 40 cGy and 80 cGy) showed significant changes in cotyledon development, as well as root length. Interestingly, small, but significant changes in vitamin content were found in mizuna and tomato fruits grown from 80 cGy (LDR) irradiated seeds. In addition, 80 cGy (LDR) simulated SPEs significantly affected tomato early seedling development, plant growth, and the quantity of fruits produced from the surviving plants. Generally, compared to 80 cGy, 40 cGy (LDR) of simulated SPEs displayed some impacts to the seeds and seedlings, but to a much lesser degree. (This study was supported by NASA Human Research Program.)

J.T. Richards↗

Plasma Sanitization of Radish Seeds for International Space Station Growth Experiments

Plant growth in space has long been a topic of key interest to enable sustained human presence. Seeds are common sources for microbial growth and must be sanitized before being sent to space. Current disinfection methods use toxic chemicals that require careful handling and dosing or are ineffective against certain seed types. Low temperature plasma provides an alternative to traditional methods. Plasma produces reactive species and ultraviolet light that reduce contaminants on seeds. NASA’s Kennedy Space Center has explored the treatment of radish seeds with plasma for sanitization and germination. Radio Frequency (RF) and Alternating Current (AC) plasma sources provided continuous treatment of radish seeds in a low-pressure and atmospheric environment, respectively. The seeds were analyzed to compare the presence of bacteria, fungi, and the germination rate. Comparisons between direct and indirect treatments, power supplies, treatment times, and treatment pressures showed the importance of proper dosing of reactive species. Higher powers and longer treatment times have shown larger reductions in microbial contaminants. However, extended direct exposure to high powered plasma can sometimes lead to a reduction in germination rates. Overall, plasma has shown promise as a viable alternative to chemical disinfection techniques. *Work supported by NASA's Kennedy Space Center Engineering and Safety Operations Independent Research and Technology Development.

K W Engeling↗

Photomorphogenesis, photosynthesis, and seed yield of wheat plants grown under red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with and without supplemental blue lighting

Red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are a potential light source for growing plants in spaceflight systems because of their safety, small mass and volume, wavelength specificity, and longevity. Despite these attractive features, red LEDs must satisfy requirements for plant photosynthesis and photomorphogenesis for successful growth and seed yield. To determine the influence of gallium aluminium arsenide (GaAlAs) red LEDs on wheat photomorphogenesis, photosynthesis, and seed yield, wheat (Triticum aestivum L., cv. 'USU-Super Dwarf') plants were grown under red LEDs and compared to plants grown under daylight fluorescent (white) lamps and red LEDs supplemented with either 1% or 10% blue light from blue fluorescent (BF) lamps. Compared to white light-grown plants, wheat grown under red LEDs alone demonstrated less main culm development during vegetative growth through preanthesis, while showing a longer flag leaf at 40 DAP and greater main culm length at final harvest (70 DAP). As supplemental BF light was increased with red LEDs, shoot dry matter and net leaf photosynthesis rate increased. At final harvest, wheat grown under red LEDs alone displayed fewer subtillers and a lower seed yield compared to plants grown under white light. Wheat grown under red LEDs+10% BF light had comparable shoot dry matter accumulation and seed yield relative to wheat grown under white light. These results indicate that wheat can complete its life cycle under red LEDs alone, but larger plants and greater amounts of seed are produced in the presence of red LEDs supplemented with a quantity of blue light.

NASA Discipline Life Support Systems↗