Abstract Airflow design in compact cultivation systems is often overlooked despite its importance for microclimate and crop performance. This study aimed to determine whether growth‐stage‐aware ventilation strategies are necessary for effective airflow in small chambers. Using graphics processing unit accelerated, computer‐based airflow simulations, we evaluated five fan configurations across four growth stages in a compact platform. Airflow performance was assessed by pixel‐based segmentation of velocity fields and point‐based diagnostics under plant‐present conditions represented by simplified cylindrical models. Results showed that no single fan configuration satisfied airflow requirements across all stages. Case 1 (top‐inlet/bottom‐outlet) consistently maintained more than 85% active airflow regions across all planes (86.29%–92.90%), effectively minimizing stagnant zones. In contrast, Case 3 (lateral fans) increased mid‐canopy airflow activity to over 90% during mid‐growth, enhancing canopy penetration. Integrating both analyses, we identified a stage‐adaptive sequence (Case 1 → Case 1 → Case 3 → Case 1) that ensured physiologically relevant airflow throughout development. These findings provide actionable design guidance for growth‐stage‐adaptive ventilation strategies in compact cultivation systems, with relevance for closed‐loop and extraterrestrial agriculture. Core Ideas Stage‐adaptive ventilation enhances airflow in compact cultivation systems. Computational fluid dynamics identified Case 1 → Case 1 → Case 3 → Case 1 as optimal growth sequence. No single fan layout was optimal; airflow needs change across growth stages. Findings support urban, laboratory, and extraterrestrial agriculture design.
Kim et al. (2026) studied this question.