UBiQD, Inc. UbiQD and UA are partnering to study how to better grow plants in space using nanotechnology.

NASA is funding a private company to partner with the University of Arizona to study how to better grow plants in space using nanotechnology.

One of the latest research contracts from NASA meant to spur innovative, small business pairs a New Mexico-based company with the UA's space-centric greenhouse.

UbiQD, Inc. will work to make more precise lighting arrangements that grow the plants in an environment that mimics what astronauts could use to grow food.

The company specializes in quantum dots, which are microscopic particles that conduct electricity and emit light. UbiQD will tailor the spectrum of light this nanotechnology emits to help grow more vegetables, which is something the company says could end up helping astronauts and Earth-based growers with their crop yields.