FLUORESCENCE IMAGING AS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD FOR MONITORING PLANT VITALITY IN ENCLOSED BIOSYSTEMS

摘要

Space horticulture is the cornerstone of a healthy, enclosed life support system for future human space exploration. Plants can help to provide food, oxygen and water regeneration, and assist in removing carbon dioxide from human space habitats. Plants have also been shown to offer psychological comfort for crew members on long-duration missions. The light-induced plant fluorescence is well-known as an intrinsic indicator of plant bio-status. The inverse relationship between photosynthetic performances and fluorescence emission is well studded as a promising tool for early detection of strain, stress or damage of plants. To adapt this innovative technique for future life support systems, this work proposes a conception of monitoring plant vitality in space bio-facilities, based on registration of the intensity and spatial distribution of fluorescence, induced by a light flux with the appropriate spectrum. To analyze the feasibility of this method, a set of experiments with plant samples were carried out in a specially designed laboratory bio-chamber. Fluorescence images of healthy and stressed plants were collected and different types of stress factors were investigated. Images and charts represent the acquired fluorescence data and demonstrate the sensibility and rapidity of changes under stress impact. Selected images illustrate an early detection of plant dysfunction. Results attest the feasibility of the method and could be used for the development of future auto-controlled bio-support systems.