MAIN RESULTS OF CULTIVATING PLANTS IN A PROTOTYPE OF CONVEYOR VITAMIN SPACE GREENHOUSE VITACYCLE-T

The paper presents main results of Chinese cabbage cultivation in prototype of cylindrical conveyor-type space greenhouse VITACYCLE-T in which the gravity-induced plant bending is neutralized by horizontal rotation. The authors describe key greenhouse units and test procedures, light distribution and air flows within the plant unit designed as a spiral cylinder. Also, they report the composition, pH and specific electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution for 6 root modules (RMs) prepared in a watering and aeration unit designed for use in microgravity. The laboratory test showed that mean biomass of the Chinese cabbage crops exceeded control values in 1.9 times. There was not a significant difference of crops gathered after the first and second turn. Daily average productivity was nearly twice as high as specified in the design documentation. Leaves had species-typical color, shape and size. Organoleptic analysis stated delicate consistency, flavor, absence of downiness and bitterness. Content of vitamins A and C in the biomass agreed with their normal levels in this vegetable. The crops satisfy fully the need of one cosmonaut for these vitamins.