Challenge Long-duration space missions, such as those to Mars, demand sustainable, nutrient-rich food systems that minimise waste and maximise efficiency. Current space diets rely heavily on packaged foods and supplements, including vitamin D, which limit freshness and variety. A major gap exists in developing regenerative food sources that support astronaut health and close agricultural loops in space environments.
Solution Mission MushVroom is the first initiative to cultivate edible oyster mushrooms in space. Fast-growing, nutrient-dense, and capable of synthesising vitamin D when exposed to UV light, oyster mushrooms offer an ideal crop for space missions. They complement plant-based systems by recycling waste into food, require minimal inputs, and double in size daily, making them a powerful component of closed-loop space agriculture.
Impact Successfully growing edible mushrooms in space can revolutionise the space food sector and bring us closer to delicious, nutritious and sustainable space food production for future missions on the Moon, Mars and here on Earth.
