A biological engineering company has found a novel approach for growing cannabis and it could work well in space.
BioHarvest has successfully grown multiple trichomes in coral-shaped clusters where they are attached together in a natural structure.
Trichomes are the appendages on the surface of cannabis flowers that produce and hold the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes, according to Weedmaps.
CEO Ilan Sobel told Futurism once cannabis becomes federally legal, his company’s process could present a biological breakthrough in microgravity.
“We see the potential ability for valuable minor cannabinoids to be grown at significantly higher quantities compared to its growth on Earth.”
For the time being, BioHarvest is focused on growing microgravity-enhanced nutrients for astronauts.
Former astronaut Chris Hadfield said once there’s a stable population in space, there could be time for cannabis consumption.
But for now, it’s still too risky to be impaired in space and besides, cannabis isn’t regulated for use on the International Space Station.