Our system aims to solve the problem of the astronauts constantly needing to water the plants manually. Using a cubic design optimizes the spacing of each of our variables and gives the plants enough room to grow without imposing issues. The system allows the water to dispense on a timer, rather than needing to water them manually every few hours.

Supplies

Plastic Glass
Silicone
2 Timers
Tubes
Rockwool Cubes
Automatic water pump with pressure switch
Electric Fan
2 Red LED Strips
2 Blue LED Strips
1 Green LED Strip

Step 1: Innovations in Our Design

Incorporate 2 shelving units to fit more plants.
2 Perforated tubing connected to the reservoir to water plants evenly.
Water release runs on a timer, watering the plants with the required amount every few hours.
Pressurized electric water pump to push water through the tubes and into the rockwool.
Electric fan on a timer to regulate humidity.
Purple hued LED strip lights on the corners of the system. Additional green LEDs on the sides.

Step 2: Growth Medium

Similar to a hydroponic system, the lettuce is placed in separate rockwool cubes. The medium itself needs to be soaked in a condition solution that has a pH of 5.5, which then lowers the pH of the rockwool cubes to about 6.0. While the cubes are absorbent, the water runoff shouldn’t exceed more than 30%.