One of the most frequently asked questions from people who have never been to Antarctica is:
"How do you get fresh vegetables to Antarctica in the winter?".
Easy, we grow them. During the summer season fresh fruits and vegeatables are a rather common occurrence in the galley due to the numerous flights to Antarctica. However, in the winter when there aren't any flights or other physical links to the "outside world" for nearly six months, we must grow the vegetables ouselves.
"OK, so how do you do that?"
Hydroponics. The plants rely 100% on the water source to gain both the water and nutrients necessary for life. There are currently six separate hydroponics systems in the greenhouse. Each system is composed of several interconnected white PVC pipes like you'd see in a hardware store in the United States. There are holes in the tops of the pipes where smaller pipes can be inserted such that the small pipes are perpendicular to the large pipes. The small pipes are filled with vermiculite, an inert substance used for packagaging chemicals brought to Antarctica. Nylon mesh is used to hold the vermiculite in the pipes. After the "verm" absorbs water for about one day the seeds are planted. It usually takes a plant about six weeks to become mature enough for harvest.
"What about light and nutrients, I thought it was dark for six months?"
The nutrients (N, Ca, Mg, S, Fe etc...) are added to the water circulating through the system. By measuring the conductivity of the water the nutrient content can be determined. Special light bulbs are used which emit light in the wavelengths most absorbed by chlorophyll "a" and "b", remember photosynthesis? Also, acid/base balance is really important for optimal plant growth and is monitored every day. The pH can be adjusted by adding Nitric Acid or Base to the water.
Behind me is system 3 which is where cucumbers and tomatoes are grown. We are also able to grow jalapenos, peppers, cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, and dill.
