It’s been part of their mission for nearly two years. Now for astronauts aboard the International Space Station, it's coming into bloom.
Saturday, Astronaut Scott Kelly tweeted a photo of what he says is the first-ever flower grown in space. Plants have been grown in space before.
The space garden debut of the Zinnia flower follows a few failed growth cycles.
In 2014, space station crew members began a veggie plant system. Efforts included growing red romaine lettuce.
Scientists say this new breakthrough allows for better understanding of how to grow plants in microgravity. Microgravity occurs when the pull of gravity is not very strong - and things appear to be weightless. A good example of this is when you see shots of astronauts floating inside their spacecraft.
Instructional Links
Website Article: NASA, Space Station Research, First Flower Grown in Space Station's Veggie Facility
http://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/first-flower-grown-in-space-stations-veggie-facility
Lesson Plan: Discovery Education, Life In Space: International Space Station
Video: PBS LearningMedia: Living and Working in Sapce