In 2021, NASA sent 11 types of crop seeds outside the space station for 8 months; after their return, scientists tested whether they could still grow

The 2021 NASA seed experiment ultimately demonstrates why some of the most important space discoveries can begin with objects that appear remarkably simple. A tiny seed contains the potential for an entire crop, yet its ability to remain viable after prolonged exposure to the space environment could become increasingly important as human exploration moves farther from Earth.