GERMINATION PARAMETERS MAIZE SEEDS SUBJECTED CLINOROTATION

Over the years, space exploration has witnessed so many challenges especially in area of life support system which has hindered manned space craft for long space exploration. One of the major limiting factors in space life support systems is gravitational force. Plants are a vital component of life support systems in space exploration because they provide essential components for humans’ long-term extraterrestrial survival. They can be used in bio-regenerative life support systems (BLSS) as sources of food and oxygen, for the absorption of CO2, and for the recycling of waste during space missions, they can also improve the atmosphere in enclosed spaces, as well as lowering the risk of mental health for astronauts. Clinorotation, a technique that simulates microgravity conditions, has gained significant interest in plant research due to its potential implications for space agriculture and understanding terrestrial plant growth responses and biological life support systems. The design involved subjecting maize seeds to clinorotation conditions within a controlled laboratory setup. The experiment was conducted in multiple replicates, with conventional germination conditions serving as the control group. The clinorotation apparatus, designed to simulate microgravity
conditions, facilitated continuous rotation of the maize seeds, removing the effects of gravitational forces. Germination parameters, including germination percentage, germination rate, mean germination time, and other associated growth metrics, were meticulously measured and analyzed. Additionally, various physiological parameters, such as root and shoot lengths, were assessed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the maize seed’s germination under clinorotation stress. The results demonstrated significant variations in germination parameters between the clinorotation-exposed and control groups. The clinorotated maize seeds exhibited faster germination initiation, increased germination percentage, and altered germination rates compared to their terrestrial counterparts. The findings from this study provide crucial insights into the effects of microgravity simulation on maize germination and early growth stages. Understanding these responses is essential for the successful cultivation of crops during prolonged space missions and the establishment of extraterrestrial habitats.