NASA study finds some Earth microbes could survive on the moon
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NASA-led research shows five forms of Earth fungi and bacteria could survive for weeks to months in certain lunar South Pole conditions. The fungus Aspergillus niger proved the most resilient in modeling simulations. The findings raise concerns about unintended life transfer to the moon.
Key Facts
- The study modeled conditions in three regions near the lunar South Pole: Nobile Rim, Connecting Ridge, and de Gerlache Rim.
- Aspergillus niger, a common fungus also found on the International Space Station, was the most resilient microbe tested.
- The two fungi studied proved hardier than the three bacteria species.
- The findings were published this week in the journal Science Advances.
Simulation Conditions
NASA scientists tested five forms of fungi and bacteria in modeling simulations of three regions near the lunar South Pole. The regions were Nobile Rim, Connecting Ridge, and de Gerlache Rim. Environmental conditions were based on observations by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and data on radiation exposure. The simulations indicated that some microbes could survive for periods of weeks to months in certain areas, such as permanently shadowed craters, and during autumn and winter.
Microbe Resilience
The two fungi studied proved hardier than the three bacteria species. Aspergillus niger, a common fungal species sometimes called black mold, was the most resilient. Astronauts have found Aspergillus niger inside the International Space Station, and experiments have shown it can survive outside the station in orbit. The researchers also studied several species of Fusarium, a common soil-borne fungus, which was similarly resilient though not to the extent of Aspergillus.
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NASA study finds some Earth microbes could survive on the moon
