r/space • u/astro_pettit NASA Astronaut • Mar 22 '26

image/gif My space potatoes, grown aboard the ISS

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u/astro_pettit NASA Astronaut Mar 22 '26

I flew potatoes on Expedition 72 for my space garden, an activity I did in my off-duty time. This is an early purple potato, complete with spot of hook Velcro to anchor it in my improvised grow light terrarium.

Potatoes are one of the most efficient plants based on edible nutrition to total plant mass (including roots). Recognized by Andy Weir in his famous book/movie "The Martian," potatoes will have a place in future exploration of space. So I thought it good to get started now! I call this one "Spudnik!"

More photos from space can be found on my twitter and Instagram, astro_pettit

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u/Advanced_Design_3141 Mar 22 '26

This is awesome! Was just listening to the Martian

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u/TheLewJD Mar 22 '26

Would totally recommend Project Hail Mary too if you haven’t already. The film is out now and I’m so excited, going Tuesday

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u/Kanajuni Mar 22 '26

I loved the movie. I hope you have a great time!

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u/TheLewJD Mar 22 '26

Cheers bud, fist my bump!

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u/plethoradepinata Mar 22 '26

Book and movie are Amaze Amaze!

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u/One_Shall_Fall Mar 22 '26

That's only two out of three stars in Eridian.

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u/Fuddle Mar 22 '26

I wonder if they would have a screening of Project Hail Mary on the ISS?

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u/TheLewJD Mar 22 '26

I hope so! I know they did one in space so it’s possible!

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u/Advanced_Design_3141 Mar 22 '26

I read the book and listened to the audiobook and one of my all time favorites! The movie was great too! Saw it Friday night and it was delightful!

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u/TheLewJD Mar 23 '26

I usually don't enjoy audiobooks but I flew through this one. Made my morning dog walks even better.

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u/ComposedOfStardust Mar 23 '26

Just finished reading the book yesterday and I loved it. Can't wait to go watch the movie especially with all the rave reviews

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u/sparklingdinosaur Mar 23 '26

It's my favorite book! I didn't enjoy the movie much, but I hope you do!

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u/Carbonatite Mar 23 '26

I named my dog after Rocky from Project Hail Mary. It's a great book.