The reproductive spores of a resilient moss species have achieved an incredible feat by surviving the harsh vacuum of space for an astonishing 9 months outside the International Space Station (ISS).
As the iconic Jeff Goldblum once said, life, uh, finds a way.
The moss in question, known as Physcomitrella patens, is a hardy pioneer species that thrives in muddy environments. Scientists were curious to explore the limits of this plant’s resilience and subjected its spores to a range of extreme conditions reminiscent of space, including frigid temperatures devoid of oxygen and exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
After demonstrating remarkable resilience under these tough conditions, the researchers sent the moss spores aboard the Cygnus NG-17 spacecraft to the ISS. Once there, astronauts carefully placed the spores in containers affixed to the exterior of the station, where they remained for 9 months.
Upon their return to Earth, these space-tested spores showcased an impressive reproduction rate of 86%, compared to a germination rate of 97% when cultivated on Earth.
Dr. Tomomichi Fujita, the lead author of the study from Hokkaido University in Japan, expressed excitement about the implications of these findings. He stated, “If such spores can endure long-term exposure during interplanetary travel and then successfully revive upon rehydration and warming, they could one day contribute to establishing basic ecosystems beyond Earth.”
Dr. Fujita emphasized that moss could play a vital role in future space exploration. While it may not be on the menu for astronauts, its remarkable resilience offers valuable insights into developing sustainable life-support systems in space. Moss could be instrumental in oxygen production, humidity control, or even soil formation.
In contrast, humans would struggle to survive beyond the protective confines of the ISS. A person would lose consciousness in a mere 15 seconds without the pressurized, oxygen-rich environment provided by the station.
This study is not the first to investigate the potential for plant material to survive in space. Other experiments have also tested seeds outside the ISS, revealing their capacity to endure and reproduce.
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