However, the problem with using natural foliage on our interstellar explorations is that plants may not grow in zero gravity as much as we would need them to.
But since they are a better way to produce oxygen than simply trying to carry countless tanks full of O2, Melchiorri wanted to engineer a better alternative that would easily survive the rigors of space travel.
What Melchiorri ended up creating still functions exactly like the leaves on a plant do, but in improved packaging.
The artificial leaves feature chloroplasts extracted from actual plant cells that are suspended in a material made from silk protein.
Therefore, when given access to light and water they still produce oxygen.
These leaves can be employed as natural air filters in the ventilation systems of large buildings, producing extra oxygen that can be pumped indoors.
So it is safe to say that the future is nigh!