In a historic milestone for Nigeria’s science and technology landscape, Temidayo Isaiah Oniosun, founder and managing director of Space in Africa, has spearheaded the nation’s first-ever agricultural payload to space. The payload, carrying melon (egusi) seeds, successfully launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and has now arrived at the International Space Station (ISS).
The project aims to study how egusi seeds a staple in West African diets respond to the unique microgravity and radiation environment of space. According to mission details, the seeds will undergo a series of viability and germination experiments aboard the ISS. Results from this study could unlock new insights into sustainable agriculture in extreme environments, including space colonies and arid regions on Earth.
Oniosun emphasized the cultural and scientific significance of this effort, noting: “Egusi is more than just food; it is part of our identity. By sending these seeds to space, we are showcasing African innovation while contributing to the global search for resilient crops in challenging environments.”
The egusi experiment was integrated into a broader international research program, with contributions from Nigerian engineers, biologists, and international space research partners. The payload is expected to remain on the ISS for several weeks, after which it will return to Earth for further analysis.
This achievement marks a first for Nigeria in the global space-agriculture frontier, placing the country alongside other spacefaring nations experimenting with crops in orbit. It also strengthens Africa’s presence in the space industry, where Nigeria is already recognized for satellite development and regional coordination.
Why Egusi?
Egusi (Citrullus colocynthis) is a nutrient-rich seed used widely in soups and stews across West Africa. Rich in protein and oils, it represents both cultural heritage and food security. If proven viable in space, egusi could become part of the “space crops” roster, alongside lettuce, potatoes, and wheat already tested on the ISS.
Nigeria’s space science community hopes that this pioneering mission will inspire more investment in space technology and agricultural innovation. For Temidayo Oniosun, this is just the beginning: “This is about connecting Africa to the future of humanity. Food, space, and culture are all linked, and this mission is proof of our potential.”
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