Beyond Earth: Exploring the Potential of Bearded Moss for Space Colonization

Researchers are exploring the possibility of using a resilient subspecies, the bearded moss, to colonize the solar system. The study found that this moss can withstand extreme conditions such as drought, cold and radiation. The study was published in The Innovation journal.

Syntrichia caninervis, a species of beard mosses, underwent rigorous tests and was found to survive in harsh conditions. For instance, it lost up to 98% of its water and survived significant gamma radiation exposure. Most plants cannot survive radiation exposure over 500 Grays, but this moss was able to withstand up to 8,000 Grays.

Researchers believe that these findings could lead to exploring the possibilities of populating outer space by utilizing plants that have adapted to extreme conditions through natural selection. Mosses could play a vital role in converting carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and carbohydrates, essential for human survival.

However, the research has limitations such as not accounting for toxic chemicals present in Martian soil and extreme temperature variations. Researchers suggest that the moss may need breaks from extreme cold and dryness, which might not be possible on Mars. Despite these challenges, scientists remain optimistic about the survival potential of moss in harsh environments.

In conclusion, bearded moss’s ability to survive in extreme conditions makes it a promising candidate for future space colonization efforts. While challenges still exist, researchers believe that with further exploration and research, moss could be a crucial component in sustaining human life beyond Earth.