University of Alberta Scientists Grow Plants in Lunar Soil Simulant

Researchers in Alberta are experimenting with growing crops in lunar-like soil to explore possibilities for sustainable farming on future Moon missions.

2025-06-06 17:45

By By Margaret Ortiz, True North Journal

In a greenhouse on the University of Alberta campus, scientists are growing plants in the unlikeliest of soils—lunar simulant designed to mimic the Moon’s surface. The experiment is part of an international push to explore sustainable agriculture for future space missions.

The soil, made of crushed volcanic rock and minerals, replicates the nutrient-poor, gritty surface astronauts would face on the Moon. Researchers have added organic material and beneficial microbes to simulate a habitat where food crops could survive.

Dr. Amir Kandel, who leads the Lunar Agriculture Lab, says the results so far are promising. “We’ve successfully sprouted radishes, lettuce, and even strawberries. While growth rates are slower than in normal soil, the plants are adapting.”

The findings could have long-term implications not only for lunar missions but also for farming in extreme environments on Earth, such as in the Arctic or desert regions.

Students involved in the project say it’s exciting to work on something so futuristic. “It feels like science fiction,” said biology undergrad Sasha Tran, “but it’s real—and we’re part of it.”

NASA and the Canadian Space Agency have both expressed interest in the project, and are reviewing the results as part of their lunar exploration roadmap.