# Chinese astronauts harvest first rice crop in space

2026-08-11T02:04:55+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Chinese astronauts on the Shenzhou-23 mission have harvested the first batch of rice grown in space, the Global Times reported, citing China Central Television. The rice came from seeds carried to the Chinese Space Station in May. The experiment aims to study genetic stability and regenerative capacity in microgravity. The crew planted six seeds in four units, divided into two groups: one for sexual reproduction and one for ratooning, where only the root remains for regrowth. Scientists will compare how space-exposed seeds adapt versus Earth seeds. The Shenzhou-14 mission had earlier produced 59 seeds from six in orbit in 2022.

## Coverage

- thehindubusinessline.com <https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/chinese-astronauts-harvest-rice-in-space-for-the-first-time/article71327364.ece>

Tags: China, food security, microgravity, rice harvest, Shenzhou 23, space agriculture
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