Chapter 1: The Quest for Space Agriculture

The sky isn’t the limit; it’s merely the beginning of our journey beyond Earth. Humanity is just starting to explore our celestial neighborhood, having made footprints on the Moon and sent helicopters to Mars. Robotic probes have ventured even deeper into the cosmos, igniting dreams of lunar bases and Martian colonies. Who knows what the future holds? Perhaps scientific outposts on Jupiter's moons or mining operations in the asteroid belt? Or even generational ships to explore other star systems?

Nevertheless, our aspirations often clash with the harsh realities of space travel. The human body, particularly its cardiovascular system, thrives under gravity and suffers from radiation exposure. Unfortunately, current space travel technology compromises our gravitational comfort while exposing us to high radiation levels. To address this, some scientists propose employing CRISPR gene-editing to enhance human capabilities for space travel, effectively transforming us into beings suited for Martian life.

However, food security poses another significant challenge.

Space Potatoes

For prolonged space missions or off-Earth colonies, astronauts will need to cultivate their own food. Currently, resupply missions regularly send provisions to the International Space Station (ISS). In the past, astronaut meals consisted of freeze-dried powders and paste-like foods. Thankfully, this has evolved; astronauts now enjoy a diverse menu, primarily consisting of items with long shelf lives. Fresh produce is limited due to its perishable nature, and crumbly foods are cumbersome in microgravity. Still, as we aim for longer missions beyond low-Earth orbit, growing food in space becomes increasingly vital, reducing reliance on resupply missions.

As depicted in "The Martian," potatoes serve as a promising starting point for space agriculture. They offer a high harvest index, are energy-dense for a root vegetable, require minimal processing, and are adaptable to various environmental conditions. (Note: A potato-exclusive diet is not advisable, but it’s a solid foundation.)

Advancements in Potato Biotechnology

Recent innovations in biotechnology, particularly CRISPR gene editing, may allow us to enhance potatoes even further. A recent study proposes transforming the humble potato into what they call the Whole-Body Edible and Elite Plant (WBEEP) potato. Here are some potential improvements:

#### Complete Edibility

While most calories in a potato come from the tuber, other parts like the stems, leaves, and berries contain solanine, a toxic compound that protects the plant from pests. If we could eliminate solanine, we could consume the entire plant. Fortunately, other plants, such as tomatoes, have developed mechanisms to convert solanine into non-toxic compounds.

#### Nutritional Enhancement

Potatoes are decent sources of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and magnesium. However, they fall short of providing a complete nutritional profile. Biofortification can enhance their nutritional value through selective breeding or genetic modification. For example, new potato varieties with improved protein levels, vitamin C content, and even genes for folate synthesis are being developed. Additionally, researchers are exploring ways to have crops produce long-chain fatty acids like EPA and DHA, which are crucial for our health.

#### Increased Yield

To ensure our enhanced, nutritionally-rich potatoes thrive, they need to grow effectively, ideally outperforming their Earth-grown counterparts, especially in challenging environments like Martian soil or a spaceship garden. One strategy is to boost photosynthesis, which has already been achieved in potatoes by enhancing carbon fixation or modifying mRNA processes.

#### Nutrient Utilization

Potatoes require not just light but also essential minerals. Since extraterrestrial soils may lack crucial minerals, developing potato varieties that can efficiently utilize soil nutrients will be invaluable. This could involve modifying their root systems for better nutrient absorption or enhancing their relationships with soil bacteria and fungi to optimize nutrient uptake.

The potential for these advancements is still in its infancy, just like human space exploration. The authors of the study emphasize that while cultivating WBEEPs in space may not be imminent, the incremental advancements needed for such a goal could greatly benefit both space and traditional agriculture.

Chapter 2: Growing Potatoes for the Future

This video titled "Potato Growing Masterclass: My Tips for a Bigger, Better Harvest" shares expert tips for cultivating potatoes effectively, which is essential knowledge for both Earth and space agriculture.

In this video, "Could we ACTUALLY grow potatoes on Mars? | OVERTHINKING The Martian," the discussion revolves around the feasibility of cultivating potatoes in Martian conditions, exploring the challenges and possibilities for future space farming endeavors.