Case Studies: Growth Chambers for Extreme Environments

South Pole Chamber

Research by Gene Giacomelli, combined with the University of Arizona and NASA, has been developing production facilities for extreme climates like on the moon and Antarctica. In one of the most extreme and remote environments fresh vegetables are grown in the 'South Pole Food Growth Chamber', to support the crew of the NASA South Pole Station during their annual eight-month period of isolation. Semi-automated hydroponic technology and extensive data monitoring is utilized to grow multiple salad crops.  Current production numbers are around 50 kg/m2*yr with everyday production during the eight month stay, but can be improved significantly to reach numbers comparable to greenhouse technology.

http://ag.arizona.edu/ceac/south-pole

Lunar Greenhouse
Another research project by Giacomelli is the Lunar Greenhouse study. It demonstrates a closed system for maximum biomass generation, food production within a poly-culture cropping system, water recycling and revitalization of interior atmosphere.  It is designed to produce all of the fruit and vegetables needed by a crew member on 28 to 40 m2 crop production. This would generate 50% of the caloric intake required.  The design is furter adapted to meet the requirements of NASA and to be able to be sent to the lunar surface.

Case Study: Gotham Greens

  

Gotham Greens is a New York City based company dedicated to growing the highest quality vegetables and culinary herbs for local restaurants and retailers. Gotham Greens’ premium quality, pesticide-free vegetables and herbs are grown in sterile rooftop greenhouses using clean, renewable energy. Gotham Greens products can be found in local retail and dining establishments that are committed to providing their customers with the freshest and finest foods available.

http://gothamgreens.com/