China’s super space seed
So you’ve already heard of GPS satellites, telecommunications satellites, and spy satellites. Now China is adding another moniker to the mix – a “seed satellite.” In an effort to feed its ever-growing population, Chinese officials are launching over 2,000 seeds into orbit for a two-week trip designed to force the seeds to mutate. Exposed to ...
So you've already heard of GPS satellites, telecommunications satellites, and spy satellites. Now China is adding another moniker to the mix - a "seed satellite." In an effort to feed its ever-growing population, Chinese officials are launching over 2,000 seeds into orbit for a two-week trip designed to force the seeds to mutate.
Exposed to special environment such as cosmic radiation and micro-gravity, it is hoped that some seeds will mutate to such an extent that they may produce much higher yields and improved quality.
Apparently, China has been experimenting with space seeds for years with much success, but this will be the first satelite solely dedicated to producing the mutations necessary for an improved crop yield. The launch of the seed satellite should immediately bring one question to the mind of any avid follower of the Chinese space program - what ever happened to China's super space pig sperm?
So you’ve already heard of GPS satellites, telecommunications satellites, and spy satellites. Now China is adding another moniker to the mix – a “seed satellite.” In an effort to feed its ever-growing population, Chinese officials are launching over 2,000 seeds into orbit for a two-week trip designed to force the seeds to mutate.
Exposed to special environment such as cosmic radiation and micro-gravity, it is hoped that some seeds will mutate to such an extent that they may produce much higher yields and improved quality.
More from Foreign Policy


Lessons for the Next War
Twelve experts weigh in on how to prevent, deter, and—if necessary—fight the next conflict.


It’s High Time to Prepare for Russia’s Collapse
Not planning for the possibility of disintegration betrays a dangerous lack of imagination.


Turkey Is Sending Cold War-Era Cluster Bombs to Ukraine
The artillery-fired cluster munitions could be lethal to Russian troops—and Ukrainian civilians.


Congrats, You’re a Member of Congress. Now Listen Up.
Some brief foreign-policy advice for the newest members of the U.S. legislature.