Moss survives harsh space conditions for nine months
Moss spores survived nine months in space, capable of reproducing upon return to Earth.
Why it matters
- Shows terrestrial life can survive long-term in space.
- Could aid future space agriculture and colonization efforts.
By the numbers
- 283 days in space.
- Over 80% of spores survived.
- 90% of survivors could germinate again.
The big picture
- Mosses are hardy, evolved to survive extreme conditions.
- Findings suggest potential for space agriculture.
What they're saying
- Lead author astonished by spores' durability.
- Research could aid in developing extraterrestrial ecosystems.
Caveats
- More research needed on longer-term survival.
- Study focuses on one moss species.
What’s next
- Explore longer durations and other plant species.
- Potential applications in space agriculture.