Plantings are scheduled to provide a continuous year-round supply of tomatoes. Using transportable benches, the plants can be brought to work stations where workers inspect, prune and harvest plants. The system floods the plants with a nutrient based water solution, which then ebbs away back into holding tanks, where it is recirculated. High pressure sodium lamps, designed specifically for greenhouses, augment natural light. This supplemental light is needed for consistent plant growth throughout the year.
Carbon dioxide introduced into the greenhouse further boosts production.
Fine screens on the ventilation inlet windows prevent most insects from entering the greenhouse. Also, beneficial insects released in the greenhouse control populations of insect pests. A hive of bumble bees pollinates the tomato flowers. Research will focus on developing bioregenerative life-support systems for extended missions to Mars and beyond. Demonstration of greenhouse aquaculture and development of cultural practices for a number of greenhouse grown and new-use crops will also begin in the near future.