'The Martian' becomes real life: Meet 'Spudnik,' the space potato

NASA astronaut Don Pettit is showing off his pride and joy: a potato named "Spudnik." In their very minimal "free time," astronauts aboard the International Space Station generally play instruments, make art, take photos, and more. But Pettit spent his time making like Mark Watney in "The Martian," and growing potatoes in microgravity. "Recognized by Andy Weir in his book/movie 'The Martian,' potatoes will have a place in future exploration of space. So I thought it good to get started now!" Pettit wrote on X on March 20 . Article continues below Pettit's latest mission to the International Space Station, Expedition 72, which landed back on Earth in April 2025, saw him make history as the oldest active astronaut, at age 70. As part of this mission, the crew conducted incredible research, including a study of the changes that can happen to your eyes due to living in space. But a year after the mission ended, Pettit's side project growing Spudnik is now finding its time in the spotlight. NASA astronaut Don Petit conducted this potato-growing experiment aboard the International Space Station. (Image credit: NASA/Don Petit) "Potted potato: Space Spud is growing with his bottom half in an old drink bag. More to come on the adventure of Spudnik!" Pettit shared in an April 15 X post , which featured a photo of his achievement. Don Petit's purple potato "Spudnik" emerges from a pouch. On the potato you can see purple fuzzy sprouts as well as velcro. …