How can efficiencies gained from growing spirulina for astronauts translate to benefits on Earth?
Answer
Improving sustainability for food production in arid regions or urban areas.
The research invested into optimizing spirulina cultivation for space missions often leads directly to technology transfer benefiting life on Earth. Specifically, the techniques developed to grow nutrient-dense food efficiently using minimal amounts of space and water—conditions crucial for planning sustainability on Mars—have direct application for terrestrial challenges. These cultivation efficiencies can be adapted to improve sustainable food production methods in densely populated urban centers or in arid environments where water conservation is paramount.

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Why Do Astronauts Use Spirulina? - YouTube
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