1. Effect of Microgravity on Nitrogen Fixation in Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) Johnson County Central

2. Principal Investigator Rudy Pooch Co-Investigators Isaac Buss Keelee McClintock Collaborators Natalie Roddy Mason Waring Teacher Facilitator Nichole Justesen, Science Teacher Johnson County Central Public Schools

3. In order to grow our own food in space we need fertile soil. Red clover is a legume that uses bacteria in the soil to naturally fixate nitrogen, making the soil fertile. In this experiment we will plant both our sample and control to compare how much nitrogen is added to the soil by the clover. Abstract

4. We believe that the clover exposed to microgravity will release the same quantities of nitrates as it would on Earth. Hypothesis

5. Our experiment will allow the seeds to germinate in space. The clamps will be opened on U-2. The seeds will be planted upon return to JCC, and the nitrogen content will be tested throughout its life cycle. Materials: Cotton, Soil (Contains Proteobacteria), Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L), Water Experiment

6. National Sponsors State & Local Sponsors Tecumseh Foundation Barb & Dennis Gottula Ramsey Family Fountain Noman & Ramona Boone Sally Hutt Jim & Abby Klaasmeyer

7. ? Questions