{
  "id": 3546935,
  "title": "Are there plants that could survive as a food source on the moon? Part 2",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/are-there-plants-that-could-survive-as-a-food-source-on-the-moon-part",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-26T17:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Scientist",
    "slug": "new-scientist",
    "url": "https://www.newscientist.com/article/2585879-are-there-plants-that-could-survive-as-a-food-source-on-the-moon-part-2/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Eric Kvaalen, writing from Les Essarts-le-Roi, France, explains that the moon's environment presents significant challenges for plant survival. The lunar day lasts about a month, and temperatures can soar to around 120°C (248°F) during the day. However, without an atmosphere, a greenhouse would rely solely on its own energy balance for heating and cooling. This means that growing plants near the moon's poles would be problematic, as the sun would be too close to the horizon to provide sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis. To explore this topic further, readers are encouraged to submit their questions to lastword@newscientist.com, adhering to the guidelines provided.",
  "summary": "Fresh answers are questioning the broader applicability of the Wardian case – and note the importance of where on the moon the plants are grown",
  "key_points": [
    "Moon's environment poses challenges for plant survival.",
    "Lunar day lasts about a month with extreme temperatures.",
    "Growing plants near lunar poles problematic due to sunlight."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}