This course introduces students to agri-food systems with emphasis on management practices that will sustain the productivity of resources and enhance the quality of the ecosystems of which they are a part of. Students will study various aspects of food systems from crop production, food quality, processing and distribution, to studying the characteristics of agricultural soils, their ecology and management with emphasis on understanding soil as a living system, in the context of the agro-ecosystem and sustainable agriculture. Students will compare, contrast, evaluate, and critique key concepts, elements, and outcomes of diverse agri-food systems in space-based mission architectures.

This course covers the issues facing the agriculture and food sector related to the economy, the environment and society and introduces research methods in agricultural science. Students will learn the principles of agricultural experimental design methodologies and analysis, and prepare an applied research proposal. With guidance from faculty advisor(s), students will have an opportunity to develop solutions to real-world problems facing the agriculture and food sectors. The course includes participation in meetings organized by the coordinator, as well as working with a faculty advisor to develop a research project, formulate hypotheses, design and carry out preliminary experiments to test the hypotheses.

This special study option enables students to undertake specific projects in space agriculture. The topic of the special study will be determined in consultation with a faculty member and the individual student. The project may be theoretical and/or experimental and can be selected from a range of topics related to the course as suggested by teaching staff, your employer or even focused on your own area of interest. Students are responsible for making appropriate arrangements with faculty member prior to registration for the course.

For M.S. Degree, Thesis-Based Option. Research studies in Space Agriculture. Students will actively engage in the research process, write the thesis and be examined on the thesis. The research may be on any topic, subject to approval and availability of faculty supervision.

For M.S. Degree, Thesis-Based Option. Research studies in Space Agriculture. Students will actively engage in the research process, write the thesis and be examined on the thesis. The research may be on any topic, subject to approval and availability of faculty supervision. Prerequisite: AGR 597.